Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Start with the background:
- Mention the rise of socialism as a global ideology during the early 20th century and its influence on the Indian freedom struggle.
- Note the emergence of socialist leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Jayaprakash Narayan within the Indian National Congress (INC).
- State the thesis: Highlight how socialist influence expanded the movement’s scope, focusing on socio-economic justice alongside political independence.
2. Body
A. Integration of Socialist Ideals
- Explain how socialist leaders brought a vision of economic and social liberation:
- Example: The Karachi session (1931) resolutions on Fundamental Rights and Economic Policy advocated for workers’ rights, equality, and justice.
- Highlight the shift from narrow political freedom to comprehensive social welfare.
B. Widening the Movement’s Social Base
- Discuss efforts to involve peasants and workers:
- Socialists demanded abolition of the zamindari system and stood for workers’ rights.
- Example: Faizpur Session (1936) focused on peasant grievances, bringing them into the mainstream struggle.
C. Demand for Complete Independence (‘Purna Swaraj’)
- Explain how socialists emphasized complete independence (political, economic, and social).
- Example: The Lahore Session (1929) adopted the resolution for ‘Purna Swaraj’ under Nehru’s presidency, influenced by socialist ideas.
D. Inclusion of Princely States
- Describe how socialism broadened the INC’s focus:
- Earlier limited to British India, socialists also supported democratic struggles in princely states.
- Example: Haripur Session (1938) extended the goal of Purna Swaraj to include princely states.
E. Youth and Militancy
- Highlight the energetic and militant tactics brought by socialist leaders:
- Leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose advocated direct action and mass mobilization.
F. Sustained Resistance Strategy
- Explain the shift from “Struggle-Truce-Struggle” to “Struggle-Victory Strategy”:
- Socialists emphasized continuous agitations like worker strikes and peasant movements.
- Example: The Quit India Movement showcased this sustained approach.
3. Conclusion
- Summarize the transformative impact of socialist influence on the freedom struggle:
- Broadened the movement’s scope to include socio-economic justice.
- Strengthened mass mobilization and connected the struggle to common people.
- Laid the foundation for independent India’s policies on socio-economic welfare.
Model Answer
The socialist influence within the Indian National Congress (INC) marked a turning point in India’s freedom struggle, shifting its focus toward socio-economic equality and mass mobilization. Prominent leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Acharya Narendra Dev, and Jayaprakash Narayan infused socialist ideals into the movement, significantly transforming its trajectory.
1. Integration of Socialist Ideals into Congress Demands
Socialist leaders emphasized that true independence must encompass economic and social liberation. At the Karachi session of 1931, INC passed resolutions on Fundamental Rights and Economic Policy, advocating for justice and equality. This marked a shift from purely political freedom to a vision of a welfare state.
2. Widening the Social Base of the Movement
Socialists sought to include workers and peasants in the struggle, advocating for the abolition of capitalism and the zamindari system. Initiatives like the Faizpur Session of 1936, which focused on peasant issues, reflected this shift. Trade unions and peasant associations gained momentum, creating a broad base of support.
3. Demand for ‘Purna Swaraj’
Replacing the earlier demand for ‘Swaraj,’ socialists called for ‘Purna Swaraj’ (complete independence), encompassing socio-economic freedom. This vision was formalized at the Lahore Session of 1929 under Nehru’s presidency.
4. Inclusion of Princely States
Socialist leaders extended their efforts to princely states, aligning with democratic movements against autocratic rulers. At the Haripur Session in 1938, Congress declared that Purna Swaraj included the liberation of princely states, broadening the scope of the movement.
5. Youth and Militancy
With leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose, the movement adopted a more youthful and militant approach, focusing on mass mobilization and direct action. This reinvigorated the struggle with greater energy and commitment.
6. Adoption of Continuous Struggle
Socialists replaced the earlier “Struggle-Truce-Struggle” strategy with “Struggle-Victory Strategy”, emphasizing sustained resistance through workers’ strikes and peasant agitations. This approach was evident in the uncompromising nature of the Quit India Movement.
Conclusion
The socialist influence redefined the freedom struggle, intertwining it with social and economic justice. This laid the foundation for the socio-economic policies implemented in independent India, ensuring the fight for freedom resonated with the aspirations of the masses.