Indian History & Post-Independence, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q.5. Critically examine the role of women in India’s freedom struggle, highlighting their participation across different phases of the movement. (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
Women actively participated in India’s freedom struggle, from early revolts to mass movements. Their courage shaped the nationalist movement. As Gandhiji said, “When women, who have been suppressed for centuries, rise, they can become a force stronger than any weapon.”
Body
Early Phase (1857 to early 1900s)
- Armed resistance during 1857 revolt: Women led military resistance against colonial forces. Example: Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and Begum Hazrat Mahal of Awadh led troops in battle.
- Assertion in princely and feudal territories: Women challenged colonial encroachment on regional sovereignty. Example: Rani Chennamma of Kittur resisted British annexation as early as 1824.
- Reformist-nationalist bridgework: Early women reformers promoted education and socio-political consciousness. Example: Pandita Ramabai advocated women’s rights and indirectly influenced national awakening.
- Participation in early global activism: Diaspora-based women contributed to India’s voice abroad. Example: Madame Bhikaji Cama unfurled India’s flag in Stuttgart and published nationalist content in Paris
Revolutionary and Non-Cooperation Phase (1905–1930)
- Involvement in secret societies: Women joined revolutionary groups to take up direct action against colonial targets. Example: Pritilata Waddedar and Kalpana Dutt engaged in armed resistance in Bengal.
- Nationalist literature and awakening: Women inspired public sentiment through poetry and publications. Example: Sarala Devi Chaudhurani promoted swadeshi and national pride through writings.
- Participation in Ghadar and early international movements: Women activists abroad funded and organised freedom efforts. Example: Women in the Ghadar Party in North America supported revolutionary activities.
- Entry into Gandhian protest campaigns: Women’s involvement began to scale up in civil disobedience efforts. Example: Women joined hartals, picketing, and bonfires of foreign cloth during Non Cooperation Movement.
Gandhian Mass Movements and Final Phase (1930–1947)
- Leadership in Salt and Civil Disobedience movements: Women became mass leaders and frontline protestors. Example: Sarojini Naidu led the Dharasana Salt March; women broke liquor and salt laws nationwide.
- Role in Quit India and underground activities: Women organised secret operations and defied police crackdowns. Example: Aruna Asaf Ali went underground and raised the flag during the Quit India Movement.
- Participation in tribal and peasant agitations: Women mobilised rural masses against colonial and feudal oppression. Example: Godavari Parulekar led Adivasi revolts in Maharashtra against landlords and British.
- Presence in political institutions and leadership: Women shaped political discourse in both Congress and non-Congress spaces. Example: Annie Besant led Home Rule efforts; Rajkumari Amrit Kaur was part of the Constituent Assembly.
Challenges to Women Freedom Fighters
- Patriarchal restrictions and social stigma: Many women were discouraged from public life and faced opposition from their families. Example: Participation often led to estrangement, loss of marital status, or ridicule.
- Gendered invisibility in historical records: Their contributions were often overshadowed by male counterparts. Example: Despite their active roles, women rarely featured in official leadership hierarchies.
- Dual struggle against colonialism and Gender discrimination: Women had to fight both the British Empire and entrenched gender norms. Example: Even within nationalist circles, women were often seen as auxiliaries, not equals.
Conclusion
Across all phases, Their journey was not just about national liberation but also about asserting their right to participate in shaping the country’s future. Their legacy continues to inspire the struggle for gender justice and inclusive democracy.
