Formation of the Indian National Congress|A Pivotal Chapter in India’s Freedom Struggle
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| Image of the delegates to the first meeting of the Indian National Congress in Bombay, 1885. Image_source: Wikipedia |
By|TN HEADLINES24
The formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) on December 28, 1885, is a landmark in India’s history. It symbolized the rise of political consciousness and laid the groundwork for India’s eventual independence from British rule. More than a political event, the INC’s birth marked a unified response to colonialism, signaling a turning point in the subcontinent’s socio-political landscape.
This article delves into the inception, objectives, early achievements, evolution, and legacy of the INC to provide a comprehensive understanding of its historical significance.
The Backdrop: Pre-1885 India
By the mid-19th century, British policies had transformed India’s socio-economic and political structure. The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 was the first large-scale attempt to resist British rule, but its failure resulted in the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British Crown. This ushered in the British Raj (1858–1947), characterized by exploitation, economic drain, and racial discrimination.
Simultaneously, a new class of Western-educated Indians emerged. Exposure to liberal ideas from Europe, coupled with a sense of national identity, spurred intellectuals to demand reforms. The need for an organized platform to address these issues became evident.
The Birth of the INC
Role of A.O. Hume
The INC was initiated by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant. He believed that an educated and unified platform could address the frustrations of Indians in a non-violent and constructive manner, thus acting as a “safety valve” against potential revolts.
The First Session
Date: December 28–31, 1885
Venue: Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College, Bombay
Participants: 72 delegates from across India, including notable figures like Dadabhai Naoroji, Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee (the first President of the INC), and Pherozeshah Mehta.
The initial session emphasized the need for:
Greater representation of Indians in legislative councils.
Administrative reforms and increased participation in governance.
Safeguarding Indian interests in economic and social policies.
Why Was the INC Formed?
1. Political Awareness
Growing discontent among Indians regarding British policies, such as high taxation, revenue exploitation, and racial discrimination.
2. Unity in Diversity
To unite Indians from diverse backgrounds, languages, and religions under a single political platform.
3. Economic Exploitation
The drain of wealth from India to Britain, highlighted by thinkers like Dadabhai Naoroji in his “Drain Theory.”
Early Objectives and Achievements
The INC initially pursued moderate goals, relying on petitions, discussions, and meetings to secure Indian interests. These included:
Legislative Reforms: Demanding increased Indian representation in legislative councils.
Economic Reforms: Opposing policies that harmed Indian industries, such as heavy tariffs on Indian goods and free imports for British products.
Civil Liberties: Advocating for the rights of Indians, including freedom of speech and protection against racial discrimination.
Although the INC’s approach was cautious, it succeeded in:
Creating political awareness among Indians.
Unifying people across regions, castes, and religions.
Setting the stage for more assertive demands in later years.
The Evolution of the INC
The INC underwent significant changes as the struggle for independence intensified:
1. The Moderate Phase (1885–1905)
Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and W.C. Bonnerjee adopted a conciliatory approach, focusing on reforms and dialogue with the British.
Achievements included raising awareness about British exploitation and laying the groundwork for a unified nationalist movement.
2. The Extremist Phase (1905–1920)
Dissatisfaction with the moderate approach led to the rise of leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai, who demanded Swaraj (self-rule).
Events like the Partition of Bengal (1905) and the Swadeshi Movement exemplified this phase.
3. The Gandhian Era (1920–1947)
Under Mahatma Gandhi, the INC transformed into a mass movement. Campaigns like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement galvanized millions across India.
By the 1940s, the INC became synonymous with India’s struggle for independence.
TN HEADLINES24 INSIGHTS
A Platform for National Unity
The INC’s formation marked a departure from isolated regional protests to a nationalistic movement. It united people across India, transcending linguistic, cultural, and regional differences.
A Non-Violent Foundation
The INC’s emphasis on constitutional methods in its early years set a precedent for non-violent resistance. This principle, later championed by Mahatma Gandhi, became a hallmark of India’s freedom struggle.
A Legacy Beyond Independence
The INC played a pivotal role in shaping post-independence India. As the ruling party for much of independent India’s history, it contributed to the nation’s democratic and socio-economic framework.
TN HEADLINES24 READERS’ INSIGHTS
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TN HEADLINES24 BOTTOM LINE
The formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885 was a watershed moment in India’s history. It brought together visionaries who dared to challenge colonial rule, creating a platform that unified a nation. From humble beginnings to becoming the vanguard of India’s freedom struggle, the INC’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, unity, and vision.
At TN HEADLINES24, we honor this legacy by delving deep into the stories that shaped India. The INC’s foundation is not just a historical event; it is a reminder of the collective strength of a nation striving for justice and freedom.
For more such engaging and insightful articles, stay tuned to TN HEADLINES24!
10 Fascinating Facts About the Indian National Congress That Shaped India’s Destiny
Founded on December 28, 1885: The INC began at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College, Bombay, as a platform for dialogue with the British government.
First President: Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee was elected as the INC’s first president during its inaugural session attended by 72 delegates.
A.O. Hume’s Initiative: The INC was initiated by retired British civil servant Allan Octavian Hume, who aimed to create a “safety valve” for Indian discontent.
Unity in Diversity: From its inception, the INC brought together leaders from various regions, religions, and social classes, laying the foundation for a unified nationalist movement.
Moderate Beginnings: In its early years, the INC advocated for constitutional reforms, administrative transparency, and greater Indian representation in governance.
Partition of Bengal Protest: The INC led the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, opposing the British decision to partition Bengal and promoting the boycott of foreign goods.
Non-Violent Struggle: Under Mahatma Gandhi, the INC adopted non-violence and civil disobedience, leading movements like the Non-Cooperation (1920), Civil Disobedience (1930), and Quit India (1942).
Demand for Swaraj: Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai transitioned the INC from moderate reforms to the demand for Swaraj (self-rule) by the early 20th century.
Role in Independence: The INC was instrumental in achieving India’s independence in 1947, with leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel negotiating the transition to freedom.
Post-Independence Impact: After independence, the INC became a dominant political force, shaping India’s constitution, economy, and democratic framework under leaders like Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
These milestones illustrate how the INC evolved from a reformist platform to the spearhead of India’s freedom struggle, shaping the nation’s political and social trajectory.
TN HEADLINES24 QUIZ | TEST YOURSELF
Test your knowledge with these 10 multiple-choice questions based on our article!
1. When was the Indian National Congress (INC) formed?
a) August 15, 1885
b) December 28, 1885
c) January 26, 1885
d) November 14, 1885
Answer: b) December 28, 1885
2. Where was the first session of the INC held?
a) Delhi
b) Kolkata
c) Bombay
d) Madras
Answer: c) Bombay
3. Who is considered the founder of the INC?
a) Dadabhai Naoroji
b) Allan Octavian Hume
c) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Answer: b) Allan Octavian Hume
4. Who was the first President of the INC?
a) Pherozeshah Mehta
b) Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee
c) Mahatma Gandhi
d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: b) Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee
5. What was the primary objective of the INC in its early years?
a) Complete independence
b) Constitutional reforms
c) Armed resistance
d) Establishment of a monarchy
Answer: b) Constitutional reforms
6. How many delegates attended the first session of the INC?
a) 50
b) 72
c) 100
d) 150
Answer: b) 72
7. Which of the following leaders was NOT associated with the early INC?
a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
b) Dadabhai Naoroji
c) W.C. Bonnerjee
d) A.O. Hume
Answer: a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
8. What was A.O. Hume’s main motivation for starting the INC?
a) To create a revolutionary army
b) To serve as a “safety valve” for Indian discontent
c) To establish British dominance
d) To seek personal fame
Answer: b) To serve as a “safety valve” for Indian discontent
9. What principle became the hallmark of the INC during the Gandhian era?
a) Non-violent resistance
b) Armed revolution
c) Economic policies
d) Caste-based representation
Answer: a) Non-violent resistance
10. Who is known for the “Drain Theory,” which highlighted economic exploitation by the British?
a) W.C. Bonnerjee
b) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
c) Dadabhai Naoroji
d) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Answer: c) Dadabhai Naoroji
TN HEADLINES24 | VOCABULARY CHALLENGE
Challenge yourself with these 10 vocabulary questions based on article!
1. What does “milestone” mean in the context of the article?
a) A large rock
b) A significant event or stage
c) A measurement of distance
d) A historical mistake
Answer: b) A significant event or stage
2. What does the term “unified” imply?
a) Divided
b) Separated
c) Brought together
d) Dismantled
Answer: c) Brought together
3. Define “constitutional” as used in the article.
a) Relating to the structure of the human body
b) Established by or in accordance with a legal framework
c) Opposing governance
d) Random or spontaneous
Answer: b) Established by or in accordance with a legal framework
4. What does “stalwarts” refer to in the context of the INC?
a) Weak leaders
b) Loyal and reliable individuals
c) Inexperienced individuals
d) British officers
Answer: b) Loyal and reliable individuals
5. What does “pivotal” mean in the article?
a) Marginal
b) Central or crucial
c) Minor
d) Irrelevant
Answer: b) Central or crucial
6. What is the meaning of “transcending” in the article?
a) Going beyond or surpassing
b) Staying within limits
c) Falling short of
d) Ignoring completely
Answer: a) Going beyond or surpassing
7. What does “mobilizing” mean in the context of the article?
a) Gathering or preparing for action
b) Avoiding confrontation
c) Dispersing people
d) Delaying action
Answer: a) Gathering or preparing for action
8. Define the term “discontent” as used in the article.
a) Satisfaction
b) Happiness
c) Dissatisfaction
d) Optimism
Answer: c) Dissatisfaction
9. What does “non-violent” refer to?
a) Aggressive actions
b) Passive resistance without physical force
c) Armed protests
d) Emotional reactions
Answer: b) Passive resistance without physical force
10. What does “exploitation” mean in the article?
a) Fair treatment
b) Beneficial utilization
c) Unfair use of resources or people
d) Ignoring opportunities
Answer: c) Unfair use of resources or people
Disclaimer:The content, Quiz, and Vocabulary Challenges provided in this article are intended for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, TN HEADLINES24 does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently and engage critically with the material.
