The Formation of the Indian National Congress: Foundations of a Political Movement

Introduction

The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the most significant political organizations in Indian history, playing a pivotal role in the struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Established in 1885, the INC was a key player in shaping India’s political landscape and advocating for the rights of Indians. This essay explores the origins, development, and impact of the Indian National Congress, examining the factors that led to its formation, its early activities, and its role in India’s journey to independence.

Origins of the Indian National Congress

Historical Context

British Colonial Rule: By the mid-19th century, India was under British colonial rule, with the British East India Company having established political and economic dominance. The socio-political and economic conditions under British rule led to growing discontent among Indians, who began to seek ways to address their grievances.

Indian Social Reforms: The latter half of the 19th century saw a rise in social and political reform movements aimed at addressing various social issues and challenging colonial policies. Prominent figures such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Swami Vivekananda contributed to a burgeoning sense of national identity and political awareness.

Early Political Organizations: Prior to the formation of the INC, various political organizations and associations were established to address specific grievances. The Indian Association, founded by Surendranath Banerjee in 1876, was one such body that sought to represent Indian interests and demand reforms from the British government.

Formation of the INC

Key Figures: The Indian National Congress was founded on December 28, 1885, at the insistence of Allan Octavian Hume, a British civil servant who believed that creating a platform for political discussion would help address Indian grievances in a controlled manner. Hume, along with other prominent figures such as Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee and Dadabhai Naoroji, played crucial roles in the formation of the INC.

Initial Objectives: The initial objective of the INC was to provide a platform for Indians to discuss and address their grievances. It aimed to promote political dialogue, seek reforms, and work towards greater representation of Indians in the British administration. The early Congress was moderate in its approach, focusing on petitions and negotiations rather than direct action.

Early Activities and Development

Early Sessions and Leadership

First Session: The first session of the INC was held in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1885. Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee was elected as the first president. The early sessions of the INC were characterized by moderate demands and a focus on seeking reforms within the framework of British rule.

Leadership and Structure: The INC’s early leadership was predominantly composed of educated elites and professionals, including lawyers, teachers, and journalists. The structure of the INC was democratic, with annual sessions and a central executive committee. The organization aimed to include representatives from different regions of India to ensure broad-based representation.

The Moderate Phase

Moderate Approach: During its early years, the INC adopted a moderate approach, focusing on constitutional reforms and seeking greater participation in the British administration. Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale emphasized petitions and peaceful negotiation to achieve their goals.

Key Achievements: Despite its moderate stance, the INC achieved some successes, including the establishment of legislative councils and the implementation of certain reforms. The efforts of the INC led to increased political awareness and a growing sense of unity among Indians.

The Shift to Radicalism

Emergence of Radical Leaders

Radical Phase: By the early 20th century, there was a growing sense of frustration among Indians due to the slow pace of reforms and continued British dominance. This led to the emergence of radical leaders within the INC who sought more assertive measures to challenge British rule.

Influential Figures: Leaders such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal, known as the Lal-Bal-Pal trio, played a crucial role in shifting the INC towards a more radical approach. Tilak, in particular, advocated for direct action and mass mobilization, emphasizing the need for complete independence from British rule.

Key Events and Movements

Partition of Bengal: The partition of Bengal in 1905 by the British government, ostensibly for administrative purposes, was seen as an attempt to divide and rule by creating religious divisions. The INC, under the leadership of Tilak and others, strongly opposed the partition, which led to widespread protests and a growing sense of nationalism.

Swadeshi Movement: The Swadeshi Movement, which emerged as a response to the partition of Bengal, was a key event that saw the promotion of Indian-made goods and the boycott of British products. The INC supported this movement, which significantly mobilized Indian masses and fostered a sense of national unity.

The Road to Independence

Role in the Freedom Struggle

The Gandhian Era: The arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in Indian politics in the 1920s marked a significant turning point for the INC. Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance and his leadership in campaigns such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Salt March, and the Quit India Movement galvanized the Indian population and brought international attention to the struggle for independence.

Congress Leadership: Under Gandhi’s leadership, the INC adopted a more radical approach, including mass mobilization and civil disobedience. The party became the principal organization advocating for complete independence from British rule, attracting widespread support across different sections of society.

Post-Independence and Legacy

Independence and Partition: The INC played a crucial role in the eventual achievement of Indian independence on August 15, 1947. The leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, who became India’s first Prime Minister, and the transition of the INC from a political organization to a ruling party marked a new chapter in India’s history.

Legacy: The Indian National Congress’s role in India’s struggle for independence and its impact on the political landscape are profound. The party’s efforts in advocating for democratic principles, social reforms, and national unity have left an enduring legacy in Indian politics.

Conclusion

The formation of the Indian National Congress was a significant milestone in India’s political history. Established in 1885, the INC initially sought to provide a platform for dialogue and reforms within the British framework. Over time, it evolved into a powerful force advocating for Indian independence, with its leadership playing a pivotal role in the struggle against British rule.

The transition from a moderate to a radical approach, the emergence of influential leaders, and the adoption of non-violent resistance strategies all contributed to the INC’s success in mobilizing the Indian population and challenging colonial rule. The legacy of the Indian National Congress is evident in the democratic foundations and political structures of modern India, reflecting the enduring impact of its historical journey.