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August 01, 2024 07:03
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Quit India Movement Day is celebrated on August 9th to commemorate the Quit India Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi. Read more about Quit India Movement Day here.
The Quit India Movement is one of the pivotal events in India’s fight for independence and is commemorated every year on August 9th as Quit India Movement Day. This day marks the launch of a mass protest against British rule by the Indian National Congress under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi in 1942. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the historical context, significance, and outcomes of this movement is crucial for both Prelims and Mains examinations.
The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Kranti, was initiated on August 8, 1942, during a session of the All-India Congress Committee in Bombay (now Mumbai). Mahatma Gandhi delivered his iconic “Do or Die” speech, urging Indians to withdraw their cooperation from the British government.
| Quit India Movement Highlights | |
| Aspect | Details |
| Launch Date | August 8, 1942 |
| Key Leader | Mahatma Gandhi |
| Significant Event | Mahatma Gandhi’s “Do or Die” speech |
| Celebration Date | August 9th |
| Reason for Celebration | Commemorating the Quit India Movement and the struggle for Indian independence |
| Major Participants | Indian National Congress, mass participation from various sections of society including students, women, and workers |
| British Response | Severe repression, mass arrests, and strict censorship |
| Impact on Independence | Weakened British control, intensified the demand for immediate independence, set the stage for India’s eventual freedom in 1947 |
| Legacy | Demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance, mass civil disobedience, and united action against colonial rule |
This movement came in response to the failure of the Cripps Mission, which was sent by the British government to secure Indian cooperation in World War II in exchange for post-war dominion status.
The slogan “Quit India” captured the essence of the demand for complete independence. The movement was marked by widespread protests, strikes, and demonstrations across the country, involving people from all sections of society.
Quit India Movement Day is celebrated on August 9th to honor the spirit of resistance and the collective resolve of the Indian people to achieve independence. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters who faced arrests, imprisonment, and even death.
For UPSC aspirants, Quit India Movement Day is an important topic for its multiple dimensions:
Although the Quit India Movement did not immediately achieve its goal of independence, it significantly weakened British control over India. The British authorities responded with severe repression, arresting almost all prominent leaders and imposing strict censorship. Despite this, the movement continued at the grassroots level, with local leaders and ordinary citizens taking charge.
The movement’s legacy lies in its demonstration of India’s united front against colonial rule and its contribution to the eventual decision of the British to leave India. The movement highlighted the power of non-violent resistance and mass civil disobedience, principles that continue to inspire movements for justice and freedom worldwide.
For UPSC aspirants, a thorough understanding of the Quit India Movement is essential, as it not only forms a critical part of India’s modern history but also exemplifies the principles of leadership, mass mobilization, and non-violent resistance.
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