The Safety Valve Theory in the context of the Indian National Movement refers to a theory that explains the formation of the Congress as a means to address the discontent among educated Indians. According to this theory, the Congress was seen as a safe outlet for educated Indians to express their grievances and demands, thereby preventing their dissatisfaction from turning into a more radical or violent movement.

Option 1 correctly describes this theory by stating that the Congress was formed as a safe outlet for discontented educated Indians. This option aligns with the idea that the Congress provided a platform for educated Indians to voice their concerns and seek reforms, serving as a safety valve to release their frustration and prevent it from escalating into more extreme actions.

On the other hand, options 2, 3, and 4 do not accurately explain the meaning of the Safety Valve Theory. Option 2 suggests that the Congress was formed as a response to the hostile attitude of the British towards Indians, while option 3 talks about resolving differences between the British and the rebels of 1857, and option 4 focuses on promoting goodwill among Indian people. While these factors might have played a role in the Indian National Movement, they do not directly relate to the Safety Valve Theory.

Therefore, option 1 is the correct explanation of the