The Indian National Congress (INC) is among the oldest and most prominent political parties in India. It has a rich history, deeply intertwined with India’s struggle for independence. Let’s explore the birth, evolution, and significance of this powerhouse in Indian politics, shedding light on its role in shaping modern India.
The Birth of the Indian National Congress
The initial aim of the INC was to provide a platform for educated Indians to engage in dialogue with the British rulers. Early Congress sessions were attended by a small group of elites, primarily focused on petitions and appeals to improve governance under British rule.
However, the party’s role evolved significantly over time. By the early 20th century, the Indian National Congress had transformed into the leading force behind the independence movement.
The Emergence of Nationalism in the Early 20th Century
The turn of the century saw rising discontent among the masses due to the oppressive colonial policies of the British. Leaders such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai (popularly known as the Lal-Bal-Pal trio) began advocating for Swaraj (self-rule). They represented the more radical faction within the Congress, pushing for stronger measures against British rule.
The more moderate leaders, including Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, believed in negotiation and reform. These differing approaches within the Congress highlighted the diversity of thought in the struggle for freedom.
Gandhi’s Leadership and Mass Mobilization
The arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in the Indian freedom struggle marked a turning point for the Indian National Congress. His philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience united millions of Indians from all walks of life. Gandhi transformed the Congress from an elite club into a mass movement.
Under Gandhi’s leadership, the Congress organized several pivotal campaigns:
- Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Gandhi urged Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and services.
- Salt March (1930): The iconic Dandi March was part of the Salt Satyagraha, a non-violent protest against the British salt monopoly.
- Quit India Movement (1942): Gandhi’s call for the British to leave India led to widespread protests and civil disobedience.
These movements, led by the Indian National Congress, galvanized Indians to demand freedom more forcefully, bringing the nation closer to independence.
The Contribution of Women to the Indian National Congress
The INC was instrumental in bringing women into the freedom struggle. Women like Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, and Aruna Asaf Ali played key roles in various movements. Sarojini Naidu was even elected as the first female president of the Congress.
The Congress actively encouraged women’s participation, breaking centuries-old traditions that kept them away from public life. The contribution of women to the INC’s mission helped shape India into a more inclusive nation.
Jawaharlal Nehru and the Path to Independence
Jawaharlal Nehru, another prominent leader of the Congress, worked closely with Gandhi and later became the first Prime Minister of independent India. Nehru was a visionary who dreamed of an industrialized, modern India. His leadership helped steer the Congress and India toward this vision.
Nehru’s efforts to align India’s independence struggle with global anti-colonial movements strengthened the INC’s international stature.
The Partition and Its Impact on the Indian National Congress
One of the most painful chapters in the Congress’ history was the Partition of India in 1947. The division of India and Pakistan came with tremendous violence, dislocation, and loss of life. Although the Congress had envisioned a united India, the demand for a separate Muslim state by the Muslim League led to the creation of Pakistan.
The INC, under Nehru’s leadership, worked hard to stabilize post-independence India, which faced enormous challenges after the Partition.
Post-Independence Role of the Indian National Congress
After independence, the Indian National Congress became the dominant political force in Indian politics. The party led the government for many years, with Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi serving as Prime Ministers.
During these years, the Congress played a key role in shaping the economic, social, and political landscape of India. However, over the decades, internal divisions, allegations of corruption, and the emergence of other political parties have challenged the Congress’ position as the unchallenged leader of Indian politics.
Challenges and Decline
By the 1990s, the Indian National Congress faced increasing competition from other political forces like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The Babri Masjid demolition in 1992 and the Hindutva movement signaled the rise of religious nationalism, which further impacted Congress’ electoral prospects.
Despite its role in shaping modern India, the Congress has struggled in recent years to regain its former influence. Leadership crises and failure to connect with young voters have further hampered the party’s growth.
The Relevance of the Indian National Congress Today
The Indian National Congress still remains one of the major political parties in India, though its influence has waned compared to its peak. Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, key figures in the party, continue to work towards reviving its political fortunes. The INC’s legacy as a party that played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle is still deeply respected by many Indians.
Personal Reflection: A Visit to an INC Office
During my visit to an Indian National Congress office in 2019, I witnessed a glimpse of its storied past and its challenges in the present. The walls adorned with photos of Nehru, Gandhi, and other great leaders echoed the INC’s historical contributions. However, the buzz of young activists gave me hope for the party’s potential revival.
The Indian National Congress continues to strive for a better future for India, despite its struggles in the political landscape.
FAQs
1. Who founded the Indian National Congress?
Allan Octavian Hume played a key role in founding the Indian National Congress in 1885.
2. What was the goal of the Congress in its early years?
In its early years, the INC aimed to create a platform for dialogue between Indians and British rulers.
3. Who led the Indian National Congress during India’s independence movement?
Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru were key leaders of the Congress during the freedom struggle.
4. How did the INC contribute to women’s participation in politics?
The Congress encouraged women to take active roles in the freedom struggle, with leaders like Sarojini Naidu rising to prominence.
5. What was the Quit India Movement?
The Quit India Movement was a mass protest led by the INC in 1942, demanding the British leave India immediately.
6. How did Partition affect the Indian National Congress?
The Partition in 1947 was a significant challenge for the INC, leading to the creation of Pakistan and widespread unrest.
7. Who was the first Prime Minister of independent India?
Jawaharlal Nehru, a prominent INC leader, became the first Prime Minister of independent India.
Quiz:
1. When was the Indian National Congress (INC) founded?
A) 1885
B) 1905
C) 1920
D) 1885
2. Who was one of the key founding members of the INC?
A) Allan Octavian Hume
B) Mahatma Gandhi
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Subhas Chandra Bose
3. What was the primary aim of the Indian National Congress at its inception?
A) To promote British rule
B) To seek greater autonomy for Indians
C) To establish a monarchy
D) To support the British government
4. Which event marked the INC’s transition towards more radical politics?
A) First Round Table Conference
B) Non-Cooperation Movement
C) Quit India Movement
D) Simon Commission
5. Who is known as the ‘Father of the Nation’ in India?
A) Subhas Chandra Bose
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Mahatma Gandhi
D) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
6. What significant event did the INC lead in 1942?
A) Quit India Movement
B) Civil Disobedience Movement
C) Salt March
D) Non-Cooperation Movement
7. Which of the following was a key demand of the INC during the freedom struggle?
A) Complete independence from British rule
B) Self-rule for Indians
C) Economic ties with Britain
D) Establishment of a monarchy
8. What role did Jawaharlal Nehru play in the INC?
A) Founder
B) Leader and Prime Minister
C) Treasurer
D) Secretary
9. Which famous speech did Gandhi give during the INC’s 1942 meeting?
A) “Give me liberty or give me death”
B) “Do or Die”
C) “We shall overcome”
D) “I have a dream”
10. In which year did India gain independence?
A) 1945
B) 1947
C) 1950
D) 1948
11. What was the significance of the Lahore session of 1929 for the INC?
A) Declaration of independence
B) Declaration of Poorna Swaraj
C) Formation of a new constitution
D) Establishment of a military wing
12. What is the meaning of ‘Poorna Swaraj’?
A) Limited self-rule
B) Complete independence
C) Economic reform
D) Social equality
13. Which act granted limited self-governance to Indians but was opposed by the INC?
A) Government of India Act 1935
B) Government of India Act 1919
C) Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms
D) Indian Independence Act
14. Who was the first President of the Indian National Congress?
A) Mahatma Gandhi
B) Subhas Chandra Bose
C) Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee
D) Jawaharlal Nehru
15. What was the aim of the Salt March in 1930?
A) To promote British goods
B) To protest against the salt tax
C) To seek foreign aid
D) To celebrate independence
16. Which ideology did the INC predominantly follow?
A) Communism
B) Liberalism
C) Conservatism
D) Socialism
17. What was a major outcome of the INC’s efforts in the 1940s?
A) Division of resources
B) Independence of India
C) Strengthening of British rule
D) Formation of Pakistan
18. Who was the first female president of the INC?
A) Sarojini Naidu
B) Kasturba Gandhi
C) Annie Besant
D) Indira Gandhi
19. What is celebrated on August 15 in India?
A) Independence Day
B) Republic Day
C) Gandhi Jayanti
D) Children’s Day
20. What is the current status of the Indian National Congress?
A) Defunct organization
B) Major political party
C) Regional party
D) Cultural organization
