Theoretical overview
The Indian National Congress (INC) was established in 1885 which played a vital role in the India’s struggle for independence. This political organization was born out of a desire for unity and freedom and to break free from the shackles of colonialism. The Congress provided a platform for diverse voices fostering national unity, advocating for civil rights, social justice, economic prosperity and self-governance. Its vision laid the foundation for a free and independent India.
Origin of Indian National Congress
- With the help of A.O. Hume in 1883 with some prominent leaders, All India conference was organized
- In 1884, Indian national union formed which later, on the recommendation of Dada Bhai Naoroji, called as Indian National Congress, 1885.
- The venue for the Congress earlier was Pune but it later got shifted to Bombay at Gokul Das Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya.
- The first President of Indian National Congress was Vyomesh Chandra Banerjee with A.O Hume as the secretary.
- In total 72 members participated in the All India conference.
The aims and objectives of the Indian National Congress have evolved over time, adapting to the shifting political landscape and the aspirations of the Indian people. In its early years, the INC focused on advocating for political rights, administrative reforms, and fair representation for Indians in the British colonial government. Prominent leaders such as A.O. Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Surendra Nath Banerjee played instrumental roles in shaping the INC and envisioning it as a platform for political discourse, addressing social issues, and raising Indian concerns with the British government.
Over time, the INC expanded its objectives and began striving for self-rule and complete independence from British rule. The partition of Bengal in 1905 marked a turning point for the Indian National Congress, leading to widespread protests and the emergence of new strategies and movements. During this period, the INC actively promoted the Swadeshi Movement and the development of indigenous industries. With the emergence of Mahatma Gandhi as a prominent leader, the INC embraced nonviolent civil disobedience as a means to bring about political and social change. Gandhi’s principle of satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) became central to the INC’s approach. The demand for Purna Swaraj (complete independence) gained prominence, and the INC played a pivotal role in mobilizing the masses during the Quit India Movement of 1942.
In addition to its political objectives, the Indian National Congress also focused on social reforms such as the eradication of untouchability, gender equality, and fostering religious harmony. The party emphasized education, social welfare, and economic development as essential elements of nation-building. Throughout its long history, the Indian National Congress has been a diverse and inclusive party, accommodating leaders from various regions, communities, and political ideologies. This diversity reflects the broad spectrum of Indian society.
Today, the Indian National Congress remains a prominent political party in India, actively participating in national and state-level politics. While its influence has experienced fluctuations over time, the party’s commitment to democratic principles, secularism, and social justice remains an integral part of its identity and legacy.
Points to remember
- The Congress provided a platform for diverse voices fostering national unity, advocating for civil rights, social justice, economic prosperity and self-governance. Its vision laid the foundation for a free and independent India.
- In 1884, Indian national union formed which later, on the recommendation of Dada Bhai Naoroji, called as Indian National Congress, 1885.
- The first President of Indian National Congress was Vyomesh Chandra Banerjee with A.O Hume as the secretary.
- In its early years, the INC focused on advocating for political rights, administrative reforms, and fair representation for Indians in the British colonial government.
- With the emergence of Mahatma Gandhi as a prominent leader, the INC embraced nonviolent civil disobedience as a means to bring about political and social change. Gandhi’s principle of satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) became central to the INC’s approach.
- Today, the Indian National Congress remains a prominent political party in India, actively participating in national and state-level politics.
