LEGACY OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL MOVEMENT
The Indian National Movement was a monumental series of political, social, and cultural efforts aimed at ending British colonial rule in India and achieving independence. Spanning nearly a century from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, the movement was characterized by its diversity in strategies, leaders, and ideologies. It began with the establishment of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885, which provided a unified platform for educated Indians to voice their political aspirations and grievances against colonial policies.
The movement evolved through various phases, including:
1.Early Nationalism (1885-1905): This period saw moderate leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Pherozeshah Mehta advocating for constitutional reforms and greater Indian participation in governance through petitions and dialogues with British authorities. The INC's early sessions, attended by delegates from various regions, highlighted issues such as the drain of wealth, high land revenue, and the need for Indian representation in the legislative councils.
2.Extremist Phase (1905-1919): Dissatisfaction with the slow pace of reforms led to the rise of more radical leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai. The partition of Bengal in 1905 galvanized the Swadeshi Movement, promoting the boycott of British goods and the revival of indigenous industries. The movement saw the establishment of nationalist schools and colleges, like the National Council of Education in Bengal. The Surat Split of 1907 between the moderates and extremists within the INC marked a significant turning point.
3.Gandhian Era (1919-1947): Mahatma Gandhi's entry into the movement marked a shift towards mass mobilization and non-violent resistance. Campaigns like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), which resulted in the arrest of over 30,000 people, the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34), which saw the participation of millions and significant events like the Salt March, and the Quit India Movement (1942) involved millions of Indians from all walks of life, demanding complete independence. The participation of women, students, and peasants increased significantly during this period.
4.Subhas Chandra Bose and Armed Struggle: Parallel to Gandhi's non-violent methods, Subhas Chandra Bose advocated for armed struggle against British rule. He formed the Indian National Army (INA) with the help of Axis powers during World War II, aiming to militarily overthrow the British. The INA's campaigns in Southeast Asia, particularly the battles of Imphal and Kohima, although unsuccessful, inspired a new wave of patriotism.
5.Role of Women and Marginalized Groups: The movement also saw significant participation from women, led by figures like Sarojini Naidu and Kasturba Gandhi, and marginalized communities, advocating for social reforms and equality alongside political freedom. Women's involvement in protests, picketing, and grassroots organizing was crucial, with organizations like the All India Women's Conference playing a vital role.