Indian National Congress: Formation and Debates

In the tapestry of India’s struggle for independence, the formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) marks a vibrant patchwork of unity, intellectualism, and resistance. It was established in the twilight years of the 19th century and didn’t just provide a platform for the discontent that seethed in the hearts of Indians but also sowed the seeds of structured defiance against colonial rule. However, its inception is shrouded in debates and theories that have sparked scholarly discussions over the decades.

Early Political Mobilization

By 1885, the formation of an all-India political organization had become an objective necessity, and the necessity was being recognized by nationalists all over the country. Many recent scholars have furnished detailed information on the many moves that were made in that direction from 1877. These moves acquired a greater sense of urgency, especially from 1883 and there was intense political activity. The Indian Mirror of Calcutta was carrying on a continuous campaign on the question. The Indian Association had already in December 1883 organised an All-India National Conference and given a call for another one in December 1885 which finally led to the establishment of Indian National Congress.

Kindling the Flame of an Indian National Congress

The foundation of the Indian National Congress in 1885 was not a sudden event or a historical accident. It was the culmination of a process of political awakening that had its beginnings in the 1860s and 1870s and took a major leap forward in the late 1870s and early 1880s. The nascent INC was more than a political assembly. It was the crucible where a collective consciousness simmered, united by common grievances and the quest for sovereignty. Sidestepping potentially divisive socio-religious themes, the focus was unerringly political, seeking to awaken a comprehensive national identity.

• Mobilising Minds, Shaping Opinions: Inspired by successful contemporary movements, the leaders embarked on mass political education, meticulously crafting strategies for inclusive national engagement.
• An Era of Conviction: Amidst imperial condescension, the early nationalists, fortified by Justice Ranade’s sagacity, were unwavering in their commitment, nurturing a self-belief that would challenge the very foundations of the British Raj.

The Establishment of the Indian National Congress

Initial Stages and the Role of A.O. Hume

Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant, played a critical role in the INC’s establishment. He, along with prominent Indian figures like Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, and Omesh Chunder Bonnerjee, organized the first meeting in Bombay in December 1885. 

• Hume’s role has been subject to extensive debate among historians, with the ‘Safety Valve’ theory suggesting that he aimed to create a controlled outlet for Indian grievances, thereby preventing a more explosive uprising.

First Session of INC

The first session of the INC was attended by 72 delegates, representing each province of India. It was a moderate beginning, with the organization primarily voicing its loyalty to the crown but insisting on its right to speak for the Indian populace’s welfare. 

• Early Political Demands: The early demands were not for complete independence but for greater representation in government and administrative services, and for reducing excessive taxation. 
• Founding of the INC: The inaugural session of the INC marked a seminal departure in the political consciousness of India, a fact underscored by contemporary commentary. 
• Indu Prakash’s Commentary: The newspaper Indu Prakash remarked on this historic congregation, recognizing it as the ‘beginning of a new life.’ 
  • It emphasized the Congress’s potential role in fostering national sentiment and unifying the diversities of India through shared aspirations and empathetic understanding.

Mosaic of Leadership – Crafting Unity in Diversity

In the Congress’s democratic setup, leaders from diverse backgrounds nurtured a symphony of varied political ideologies, their distinct voices harmonizing to uphold the principles of a newfound democracy.

• The Democratic Crucible: The INC epitomized an indigenized democracy, planting the seeds of parliamentary politics within Indian soil, a historic first.
• Sentinels of Liberty: In a relentless pursuit of civil liberties, they championed the freedom of expression, becoming bulwarks against the rampant racial prejudice and authoritarian tendencies of colonial rule.

Defining the Contours of Resistance

Gradually, the Congress leaders, acting as both scholars and strategists, carved out an indigenous anti-colonial doctrine, debunking colonial propaganda and realigning the Indian populace’s understanding of subjugation.

• The Ideological Forge: Through introspection and pragmatic engagement, the leaders crafted an evolving narrative of resistance, acknowledging their setbacks as stepping stones.
• Guardians of the National Conscience: They emerged as torchbearers, guiding the nation through the darkness of oppression towards the dawn of freedom.

The Congress – A Melting Pot of Aspirations

The INC, transcending the conventional confines of a political party, emerged as a vibrant movement. Its inclusivity welcomed various strata of society, channeling the cacophony of diverse ideologies into a coherent voice for freedom.

• The Strength in Diversity: This monumental assembly was a testament to democratic secular nationalism, accommodating myriad political temperaments and economic philosophies within its fold.
• In the Words of the Visionaries: Leaders like Naoroji and Gokhale reflected on their journey, acknowledging that the path was strewn with both triumphs and trials, each integral to the Congress’s robust legacy.

The Socio-Political Atmosphere Leading to INC’s Formation

Rising Discontent: By the late 19th century, there was growing unease among the Indian populace due to heavy taxation, discriminatory administrative practices, and economic policies detrimental to local industries. 

• The discontent wasn’t limited to the peasantry; the educated Indian middle class, too, was beginning to feel a sense of alienation and frustration.

• Influence of European Liberalism: Exposure to Western education and international liberal thought played a role. Indian intellectuals were reading about and were influenced by contemporary nationalist movements and the principles of democracy and liberty. 
  • The American War of Independence and the French Revolution, in particular, served as inspirations.
• Desire for Representation: There was a strong feeling among the emerging middle class and the intelligentsia that Indians needed a greater say in how their country was governed. 
  • The administrative apparatus, which was entirely controlled by the British, had little to no Indian representation, leading to policies often not in the best interests of the locals.
• Strong foundation by Predecessor organisations: Before the INC, regional political associations had started taking shape, signifying the political mobilization of Indian society. 
  • Groups like the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha, the Bombay Presidency Association, and the Madras Mahajan Sabha were articulating local grievances and suggesting reforms. However, there was a pressing need for a unifying platform that could consolidate these voices.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Indian National Congress was a significant turning point in India’s journey towards independence, born out of years of political awareness and dissatisfaction. Founded in 1885, the INC brought together a variety of perspectives and beliefs to form a unified movement supporting increased representation and autonomy. By utilizing an inclusive approach and adapting strategies over time, Congress established the foundation for a united national identity and opposition to colonial control, shaping India’s journey to independence.

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