Indian History & Post-Independence, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q.2. “The Swadeshi Movement marked a significant evolution in the methods and ideology of India’s freedom struggle.” Examine. (150 words, 10Marks)
Introduction
Revolutionary activities injected militancy and urgency into India’s freedom struggle, challenging the moderate approach of the Congress. As Bhagat Singh stated, “Revolution is an inescapable necessity.” These activities expanded the struggle’s ideological and tactical diversity.
Body
Radical Edge Brought by Revolutionary Activities
- Advocacy of armed struggle: Revolutionaries believed in violent overthrow of British rule. Example: Anushilan Samiti carried out bomb attacks in Bengal.
- Ideological radicalism: Revolutionaries introduced socialist and anti-imperialist ideas into nationalism. Example: HSRA promoted class struggle alongside independence.
- Symbolic propaganda by deed: Martyrdom and dramatic acts inspired mass political consciousness. Example: Bhagat Singh’s Central Assembly bombing in 1929.
- International inspiration and coordination: Revolutionaries sought help from global anti imperialist movements. Example: Hindu–German Conspiracy during WWI attempted armed revolt.
- Youth mobilisation: Revolutionaries attracted passionate young Indians dissatisfied with Congress methods. Example: The Youth Congress adopted some revolutionary slogans later.
- Expansion of the struggle abroad: Indian diaspora revolutionaries organised anti-British activities overseas. Example: Ghadar Party in North America sought to incite mutiny among Indian soldiers.
Limitations of Revolutionary Activities
- Organisational fragmentation: Lack of unified leadership weakened sustained impact. 2. Limited mass support: Secretive nature prevented wide popular participation. 3. Harsh British repression: Early suppression decimated revolutionary groups.
Conclusion
Though limited in scale, revolutionary activities added a vital radical dimension to India’s freedom struggle, influencing both popular sentiment and Congress strategies. As Jawaharlal Nehru noted, “Revolutionary nationalism shook the country awake,” broadening the path to independence.
