Day 9 – Q.5. Trace the transformation of the Indian National Congress from a moderate reformist body to a mass nationalist movement between 1885 and 1920. (250 words, 15 marks)

Q.5. Trace the transformation of the Indian National Congress from a moderate reformist body to a mass nationalist movement between 1885 and 1920. (250 words, 15 marks)

Introduction 

 The Indian National Congress started in 1885 with 72 members, focusing on small changes  under British rule. By 1920, leaders like Gandhi helped turn it into a large movement fighting  for India’s full independence.  

Bipan Chandra notes, “The INC was the crucible in which modern Indian nationalism was  forged.” 

Body  

 Early Phase (1885-1905): Moderate Phase 

2. Founding and Objectives: Congress began as a forum for dialogue between Indian elites  and British rulers.  Example: Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale emphasized  constitutional reforms.
3. Methods: Petitions, prayers, and protests within constitutional limits; loyalty to the  British Crown.  Example: Demand for Indian representation in legislative councils.
4. Social Composition: Predominantly upper-caste, English-educated middle class.  Example: Members were lawyers, teachers, and civil servants.  
5. Key Issues: Economic reforms, administrative changes, and civil rights.  Example: Critique of economic drain and poverty.  

Early Radicalism and Swadeshi Movement (1905-1918) 

1. Partition of Bengal (1905): Sparked protests and the Swadeshi Movement emphasizing  boycott of British goods.  Example: Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal became prominent leaders.
2. Emergence of Extremists: Demand for Swaraj (self-rule) and more assertive tactics.  Example: Tilak’s slogan “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it.”
3. Division in Congress: Moderates and extremists clashed over methods and goals.  Example: Surat Split (1907) divided the party.  
4. Revival during Home Rule Movement: Led by Annie Besant and Tilak, it mobilised  middle-class Indians.  Example: Campaigns for self-government intensified.

Mass Nationalism and Gandhi’s Leadership (1919-1920) 

1. Impact of World War I: Economic hardship and political repression fueled popular  discontent.  Example: Rowlatt Act and Jallianwala Bagh massacre intensified anger.
2. Gandhi’s Entry: Emphasis on non-violent civil disobedience and mass mobilisation.  Example: Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) saw participation from peasants, workers,  and women.
3. Transformation of Congress: Shifted from elitist body to mass movement embracing all  classes.  Example: Inclusion of peasants, students, and the working class.
4. New Ideology: Emphasis on Swaraj, boycott of foreign goods, and social reform.  Example: Khadi and Swadeshi became symbols of nationalism.  

Conclusion 

Between 1885 and 1920, the INC transformed fundamentally from moderate reformism to  mass nationalism during Gandhian phase, driven by socio-political realities and visionary  leadership.