Answer

The Belgaum Congress Session of 1924, presided over by Mahatma Gandhi, stands as a pivotal event in India’s freedom struggle. Marking his only presidency, this session highlighted Gandhi’s vision of nonviolent mass mobilization. It came amidst challenges like communal tensions and organizational discord, reaffirming Congress’ commitment to Swaraj and energizing its grassroots connect.

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Significant Milestone in the Indian Freedom Struggle during Belgaum Congress Session of 1924

• First session chaired by Gandhi: The session was the only Congress meeting chaired by Gandhi, symbolizing his leadership role in the freedom movement.
  For example: Gandhi’s presidency at Belgaum demonstrated his ability to unify conflicting factions and present a coherent strategy against British rule.
• Resolution of intra-party conflict: It ratified the pact between Gandhi and Swarajists, ending infighting and ensuring unity in Congress.
  For example: The Congress recognized Swarajists’ representation in government councils while Swarajists adopted Gandhi’s khadi condition for party membership.
• Response to communal riots: Gandhi raised the issue of communal violence, emphasizing the importance of religious harmony in achieving freedom.
  For example: He cited the Kohat riots as a critical issue requiring collective introspection and action to prevent further divisive events.
• Platform for untouchability reform: Gandhi introduced the Congress to the plight of untouchables, integrating social reforms into political strategies.
• Expansion of Congress reach: The session transformed Congress from an elitist organization to a mass movement by incorporating rural and underprivileged communities.
  For example: The establishment of Vidyaranya Ashram as Gandhi’s residence during the session symbolized Congress’s accessibility to common people.

Importance as the Only Session Presided Over by Mahatma Gandhi

• Gandhi’s symbolic leadership: Gandhi’s presidency underscored his pivotal role in uniting the Congress and inspiring nationwide support for the independence movement.
  For example: Despite opposition, his presidency demonstrated his authority and commitment to resolving party disputes like the No-Changers vs. Pro-Changers conflict.
• Guided Congress on critical issues: Gandhi addressed critical issues such as communal harmony and socio-economic inequality, shaping Congress’s priorities.
  For example: He called for solutions to the Kohat riots, linking religious unity to national freedom.
• Advocacy for nonviolence: Gandhi reaffirmed his philosophy of nonviolence, emphasizing its importance as a guiding principle for the freedom movement.
  For example: He condemned violent incidents like Chauri Chaura, arguing for disciplined protest to sustain public support.
• Introduction of grassroots politics: Gandhi’s presence brought attention to grassroots-level challenges, emphasizing the integration of local issues into the Congress agenda.
  For example: His focus on khadi and rural self-reliance inspired movements like village-level cottage industries.
• Reinforcement of unity: Gandhi’s leadership at Belgaum united diverse groups under a common strategy, strengthening the Congress’s influence.
  For example: The pact with Swarajists bridged ideological differences and aligned efforts for legislative participation and mass agitation.

Role in Shaping Congress’ Strategy for Mass Mobilization

• Mass inclusion policy: Congress shifted its focus to mobilizing the masses, including rural populations and marginalized communities.
  For example: Gandhi’s insistence on khadi emphasized the role of self-reliance in promoting unity and independence.
• Decentralized leadership model: The session established a model for connecting local leadership with the central organization, enhancing grassroots engagement.
  For example: Jawaharlal Nehru’s role as working secretary highlighted the need for younger leaders in mass mobilization.
• Emphasis on social reforms: Congress adopted social causes like untouchability eradication as part of its broader political mission.
  For example: Gandhi’s speech integrated caste issues with the political goal of Swaraj, garnering wider public support.
• Promoting peaceful protests: Gandhi emphasized the need for peaceful resistance, ensuring disciplined participation in mass movements.
  For example: He outlined strategies to avoid incidents like the Chauri Chaura violence, focusing on maintaining public trust.
• Integration of legislative participation: The Congress accepted the Swarajists’ role in councils while maintaining its mass movement identity.
  For example: The Swaraj Party’s legislative successes in 1923 elections showcased Congress’s dual approach to achieving independence.

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The Belgaum Congress Session of 1924 epitomized Gandhian leadership, emphasizing grassroots mobilization and unity. Moving forward, India’s democratic framework can draw lessons from such inclusive strategies, facilitating participatory governance and community-driven reforms. Strengthening citizen engagement while addressing socio-economic disparities would honor the session’s legacy, driving holistic development and a resilient democratic ethos.

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