(A) Phases of Nationalist Movement

Liberal Constitutionalists Phase:-

The Liberal Constitutionalists Phase of the Indian nationalist movement refers to a specific period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when leaders adopted a moderate and constitutional approach to address Indian grievances and seek political reforms within the British colonial framework. This phase was characterized by the formation of political organizations, emphasis on education and social reforms, and a willingness to engage with the British authorities. Here are the key details:

1. Emergence and Background:
– The Liberal Constitutionalists Phase emerged in response to the economic, social, and political changes brought about by British colonial rule in India.
– The Ilbert Bill controversy of 1883, which sought to give Indian judges the right to try European offenders, contributed to the formation of a united front against perceived discrimination.

2. Founding of Indian National Congress (INC):
– The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded in 1885, becoming the principal platform for political expression during this phase.
– The INC’s initial objectives included promoting civic and political dialogue between Indians and the colonial government.

3. Leaders and Ideological Foundations:
– Prominent leaders during this phase were often referred to as Moderates. Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee were key figures.
– These leaders were influenced by liberal Western political thought, advocating principles such as constitutionalism, rule of law, and representation.

4. Objectives and Demands:
– The Liberal Constitutionalists sought constitutional reforms within the British system, rather than immediate independence.
– Key demands included increased representation for Indians in legislative councils, administrative decentralization, and civil rights.

5. Social and Educational Reforms:
– The leaders emphasized the importance of education and social reforms as tools for uplifting Indian society.
– Gopal Krishna Gokhale’s “constructive program” called for economic self-sufficiency, education, and social reform.

6. Constructive Engagement with British Authorities:
– The Liberal Constitutionalists believed in working collaboratively with sympathetic British officials to gradually secure reforms.
– They engaged in dialogue and constitutional agitation, aiming to persuade the British government to address Indian grievances.

7. Press and Public Opinion:
– Journals and newspapers played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during this phase.
– The leaders effectively used the press to communicate their ideas, articulate grievances, and garner support for their cause.

8. Criticisms and Transition:
– The moderate approach faced criticism from more radical elements within the nationalist movement, who believed in more direct action.
– The disillusionment with the slow pace of reforms and external factors such as World War I led to a transition towards more assertive and radical approaches in the nationalist movement.

The Liberal Constitutionalists Phase laid the foundation for subsequent phases of the Indian nationalist movement, contributing to the evolution of strategies and approaches in the quest for self-rule and independence. The moderate stance eventually gave way to more assertive and direct action in the pursuit of complete independence.

Swadeshi and the Radicals phase:-

The Swadeshi Movement and the Radicals Phase were significant components of the Indian nationalist movement during the early 20th century. These phases marked a departure from the earlier moderate and constitutional approaches, with a shift towards more assertive and radical methods. Let’s delve into the details of each phase:

Swadeshi Movement (1905-1908):

1. Background:
– The Swadeshi Movement emerged in response to the partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon in 1905. The partition was perceived as a strategy to create religious divisions and weaken nationalist sentiment.

2. Swadeshi and Boycott:
– “Swadeshi” means self-sufficiency or self-reliance. The movement aimed at promoting Indian-made goods and boycotting British products.
– The use of Swadeshi goods and the boycott of British goods became powerful symbols of resistance.

3. Extensive Participation:
– The movement saw widespread participation from various sections of society, including students, intellectuals, and the business community.
– Mass meetings, processions, and public demonstrations were organized to protest against the partition and promote Swadeshi.

4. Economic Boycott:
– The economic boycott extended to educational institutions, British-controlled services, and government functions.
– The idea was to make the British feel the economic repercussions of their actions and to promote self-reliance among Indians.

5. Cultural Resurgence:
– The movement also witnessed a cultural resurgence. Indians actively revived traditional arts, crafts, and cultural practices as a part of the Swadeshi spirit.

6. Impact and Consequences:
– While the partition of Bengal was eventually annulled in 1911, the Swadeshi Movement left a lasting impact on Indian nationalism.
– It brought about a sense of national consciousness and unity, transcending regional and religious differences.

Radicals Phase (1907-1917):

1. Emergence of Radical Leaders:
– The Radicals Phase saw the rise of more assertive leaders who advocated for more direct and forceful methods in the struggle for independence.
– Prominent radical leaders included Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai.

2. Extremist Ideology:
– The radicals were labeled as “extremists” because they were willing to go beyond the moderate and constitutional methods of the earlier phase.
– They demanded “Swaraj” or self-rule, rejecting the notion of gradual constitutional reforms.

3. Militant Nationalism:
– The radicals adopted a more militant form of nationalism. Tilak famously stated, “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it.”
– They believed in using any means necessary to achieve political freedom, including mass mobilization and non-cooperation.

4. Opposition to British Rule:
– The Radicals Phase witnessed an increasing opposition to British rule, with calls for outright independence and the use of non-cooperation, boycotts, and civil disobedience.

5. Home Rule Movement:
– Tilak and Annie Besant initiated the Home Rule Movement in 1916. The movement sought to attain self-rule for India through constitutional means and garnered support from various sections of society.

6. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre:
– The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, where British troops fired on a peaceful gathering in Amritsar, fueled anti-British sentiments and marked a turning point.

7. Transition to Gandhian Era:
– The Radicals Phase laid the groundwork for the more inclusive and non-violent approach of Mahatma Gandhi, who emerged as a prominent leader in the 1920s.

These phases of the nationalist movement highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of the struggle for independence, with different leaders and strategies coming to the forefront at different times. The Swadeshi Movement and the Radicals Phase played crucial roles in shaping the trajectory of the broader movement towards self-rule in India.

Beginning of Constitutionalism in India

The “Beginning of Constitutionalism in India” refers to a crucial phase in the Indian nationalist movement when leaders sought to address political grievances and advocate for Indian representation within the framework of the British colonial system. This phase laid the foundation for subsequent developments and marked the initiation of constitutional methods in the struggle for self-governance. Let’s explore this phase in detail:

1. Background and Historical Context:
– The 19th century witnessed significant changes in India, including the introduction of modern education, railways, and a growing awareness of constitutional principles.
– The impact of the 1857 Indian Rebellion, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, led to the direct assumption of control by the British Crown from the East India Company in 1858.

2. Formation of Political Associations:
– The early decades of the 20th century saw the emergence of political associations that played a crucial role in the constitutional phase.
– The Indian National Congress (INC), founded in 1885, became a major platform for political expression.

3. Moderate Leadership:
– Leaders during this phase were often referred to as “Moderates,” including Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee.
– These leaders were influenced by Western liberal political thought and believed in constitutional methods to achieve political rights.

4. Legislative Council Reforms:
– The demand for constitutional reforms was focused on increasing Indian representation in legislative councils.
– The Indian Councils Act of 1861 had initially allowed for some non-official Indian members, but the demand for more significant representation persisted.

5. Congress Demands:
– The INC put forward a series of demands, known as the Congress demands, during its early sessions. These demands included:
– Expansion of legislative councils with more elected Indian representatives.
– Equality before the law.
– Civil rights and liberties.

6. Educational and Social Reforms:
– Leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale emphasized the importance of education and social reform.
– They believed that a modern and educated society was a prerequisite for meaningful political participation.

7. Role of Press:
– The press played a significant role in disseminating nationalist ideas and shaping public opinion.
– Newspapers such as “The Hindu,” “Amrita Bazar Patrika,” and others became platforms for expressing political views.

8. Moderate Approach:
– The leaders adopted a moderate approach, advocating for gradual constitutional reforms rather than immediate self-rule.
– Dadabhai Naoroji’s “Drain Theory” highlighted economic exploitation and the need for financial autonomy.

9. Collaboration with British Authorities:
– The Moderate leaders were willing to collaborate with sympathetic British officials who shared their vision of gradual reforms.
– Gokhale’s “Servants of India Society” aimed at training public servants to work for the welfare of the people within the existing system.

10. Legacy and Transition:
– The Beginning of Constitutionalism Phase laid the groundwork for subsequent phases in the nationalist movement.
– The moderate approach faced criticism for being too cautious, eventually giving way to more assertive and radical phases after World War I.

In summary, the Beginning of Constitutionalism in India represents a critical phase where leaders sought political rights and representation through constitutional means. The emphasis on education, social reform, and collaboration with sympathetic elements within the British administration contributed to the evolving narrative of India’s struggle for self-governance.

(B) Gandhi and Mass Mobilisation :

Non-Cooperation Movement

The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant phase in India’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule. It was a mass protest campaign initiated by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress (INC) in response to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and other grievances. This movement aimed to unite Indians in nonviolent resistance against British authorities and institutions. Let’s delve into the full details of the Non-Cooperation Movement:

Background:

1. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre:
– The brutal Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, where British troops fired on a peaceful gathering in Amritsar, killing hundreds, deeply angered and radicalized Indians.
– This event served as a catalyst for the Non-Cooperation Movement.

2. Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms:
– The discontent was further fueled by the disappointment with the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919, which fell short of Indian expectations for self-governance.

Initiation of the Non-Cooperation Movement:

3. Mahatma Gandhi’s Leadership:
– Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in the Indian nationalist movement, proposed the idea of non-cooperation as a means of passive resistance.
– He advocated for nonviolent protest, non-cooperation with British institutions, and the promotion of swadeshi (use of Indian-made goods).

4. INC’s Resolution:
– The Non-Cooperation Movement was formally adopted at the Nagpur Session of the Indian National Congress in December 1920.
– The resolution called for nonviolent non-cooperation with the British government.

Components of the Non-Cooperation Movement:

5. Surrender of Titles and Honors:
– Indians were urged to surrender their titles, honors, and government jobs as a symbolic gesture of non-cooperation.

6. Boycott of British Goods:
– A key component was the boycott of British goods, promoting the use of swadeshi products.
– Bonfires of foreign goods were organized, and people actively participated in the boycott.

7. Withdrawal from Educational Institutions:
– Students were encouraged to withdraw from government-controlled schools and colleges, leading to the establishment of alternative educational institutions.

8. Non-Cooperation with British Institutions:
– Indians were urged not to participate in British-controlled institutions, including legislatures and law courts.
– Lawyers, in particular, were asked to abstain from practicing in British courts.

9. Mass Demonstrations and Strikes:
– Mass demonstrations and strikes were organized across the country to protest British rule.
– The movement gained support from various sections of society, including peasants, workers, and students.

Impact and Aftermath:

10. Suspension of Non-Cooperation Movement:
– The Non-Cooperation Movement reached its peak by 1921, but it was temporarily suspended by Gandhi in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident.
– The violence at Chauri Chaura, where protesters clashed with the police, led Gandhi to withdraw support for the movement.

11. Legacy and Lessons:
– Despite its suspension, the Non-Cooperation Movement left a lasting impact on the Indian independence movement.
– It demonstrated the power of mass nonviolent resistance and inspired future leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose.

12. Shift Towards Civil Disobedience:
– The Non-Cooperation Movement paved the way for the concept of civil disobedience, which became a central strategy in the later phases of the independence movement.

The Non-Cooperation Movement marked a significant shift in the nature of the Indian nationalist movement, introducing large-scale nonviolent resistance as a powerful tool against colonial rule. While it faced challenges and was temporarily suspended, its legacy continued to influence subsequent movements and strategies in the quest for India’s independence.

Civil Disobedience Movement

The Civil Disobedience Movement was a pivotal chapter in India’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule. Initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, this movement aimed to challenge unjust laws and taxes, promote self-reliance, and ultimately seek greater political autonomy for India. Here are the full details of the Civil Disobedience Movement:

Background:

 1. Failure of Previous Agitations:
– Earlier movements, such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, had achieved some success but were suspended without achieving complete independence.
– The Simon Commission (1927) and the failure of the Round Table Conferences further intensified discontent.

2. Salt Tax and Salt March:
– The salt tax imposed by the British on a basic necessity became a symbol of colonial injustice.
– The Salt March of 1930, led by Mahatma Gandhi, was a significant precursor to the Civil Disobedience Movement. Gandhi and a group of followers marched to the Arabian Sea to make their own salt, defying the British monopoly.

Initiation of the Civil Disobedience Movement:

 3. Dandi March:
– The Salt March culminated in the famous Dandi March, where Gandhi and his followers reached the coastal town of Dandi in Gujarat, producing salt by evaporating seawater.
– This event marked the official commencement of the Civil Disobedience Movement.

 4. Civil Disobedience Pledge:
– Gandhi and the Congress leaders pledged to peacefully defy specific laws, taxes, and government policies considered unjust.
– People were encouraged to break salt laws, boycott foreign goods, and refuse to pay taxes.

Components of the Civil Disobedience Movement:

 5. Boycott of Foreign Goods:
– A significant aspect was the boycott of British goods and the promotion of swadeshi (indigenous) products.
– People were urged to stop buying imported goods to hit at the economic interests of the colonial rulers.

 6. Refusal to Pay Taxes:
– Indians were encouraged to refuse payment of taxes, especially the salt tax and land revenue.
– The nonviolent non-cooperation extended to government services and institutions.

 7. Women’s Participation:
– Women played a crucial role in the movement. They actively participated in protests, marches, and acts of civil disobedience.

 8. Prison Movement:
– Thousands of Indians were arrested for their participation in civil disobedience. Prisons became centers of resistance.
– The “Do or Die” call by Gandhi during the Quit India Movement (1942) originated during the Civil Disobedience Movement.

 9. Spread Across India:
– The movement spread across India, involving people from different regions, religions, and social backgrounds.
– Mass participation demonstrated the widespread support for the cause of independence.

Impact and Resolution:

 10. Government Repression:
– The British government responded with repression, arresting thousands of protesters, including prominent leaders like Gandhi.
– The Salt Satyagraha and the Civil Disobedience Movement placed international attention on India’s struggle.

 11. Gandhi-Irwin Pact:
– In 1931, after negotiations with Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India, Gandhi agreed to suspend the movement in exchange for concessions, including the release of political prisoners and permission to attend the Round Table Conference.

 12. Legacy and Long-Term Impact:
– The Civil Disobedience Movement demonstrated the power of nonviolent resistance as a political tool.
– It laid the groundwork for future mass movements and influenced the strategies of subsequent leaders.

Conclusion:

The Civil Disobedience Movement was a critical episode in India’s journey toward independence. While it did not achieve immediate independence, it had a profound impact on the national psyche, inspiring future generations of leaders and reinforcing the effectiveness of nonviolent civil disobedience as a means of political change. The movement marked a turning point in India’s struggle, setting the stage for the eventual attainment of independence in 1947.

Quit India Movement

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a significant episode in India’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule. Launched by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942, the movement aimed at demanding an end to British rule in India. Here are the full details of the Quit India Movement:

Background:

1. Failure of Cripps Mission:
– The failure of the Cripps Mission (1942), which failed to provide a clear roadmap for India’s post-war political future, heightened Indian dissatisfaction with British rule.

2. World War II Context:
– The global context of World War II and the fact that Britain was engaged in a war against Axis powers without a clear commitment to Indian self-rule added to the frustration.

3. Gandhi’s Call for Immediate Independence:
– Mahatma Gandhi, dissatisfied with British procrastination, called for the immediate end to British rule in India and launched the Quit India Movement.

Initiatives and Objectives:

4. “Do or Die” Call:
– Gandhi gave the famous “Do or Die” call, urging Indians to engage in nonviolent civil disobedience to demand an end to British rule.
– The call was a symbol of the determination and commitment of the Indian people to achieve independence.

5. Mass Demonstrations and Protests:
– The movement saw widespread participation in mass demonstrations, protests, and strikes across the country.
– People, including students, workers, and women, actively took part in the movement.

6. Formation of Parallel Governments:
– In some areas, local leaders established parallel governments to challenge British authority.
– The aim was to demonstrate that Indians were capable of self-governance.

7. Suppression and Repression:
– The British responded with severe repression, arresting thousands of Indians, including top leaders.
– The arrest of prominent leaders like Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, and others weakened the movement temporarily.

Impact and Outcomes:

8. Suppression and Subsequent Release:
– The British, facing challenges both in India and globally, ultimately released the arrested leaders in 1944.
– The suppression of the movement marked a period of heightened tension and resistance.

9. Impact on British Perspectives:
– The Quit India Movement significantly influenced British perspectives on India’s demand for self-rule.
– The realization that Indian cooperation was crucial for the war effort led to a shift in British policy.

10. Post-War Independence:
– The end of World War II in 1945 and the Labour Party’s victory in the British elections of 1945 paved the way for significant political changes.
– The Labour government under Clement Attlee recognized the need for decolonization, ultimately leading to the attainment of Indian independence in 1947.

Legacy:

11. Symbol of Resistance:
– The Quit India Movement remains a symbol of India’s determination to achieve freedom and resist colonial rule.
– It demonstrated the power of mass movements in shaping political outcomes.

12. Transition to Independence:
– While the Quit India Movement did not lead directly to independence, it accelerated the process and contributed to the changing dynamics of the post-war world.
– The movement demonstrated that the Indian people were united in their demand for self-rule and were willing to make sacrifices for their freedom.

The Quit India Movement was a crucial phase in India’s struggle for independence, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history. The movement, with its call for immediate independence and nonviolent civil disobedience, played a significant role in shaping the political landscape that ultimately led to India’s independence in 1947.

(c) Revolutionaries, Socialists, and Communists

Revolutionaries

During the Indian nationalist movement, various revolutionary groups and individuals emerged to actively resist British colonial rule. These revolutionaries were characterized by their advocacy for armed resistance, direct action, and a willingness to use violence to achieve the goal of Indian independence. Here are details about some of the prominent revolutionaries and groups during the time of the Indian national movement:

1. Anushilan Samiti:
– Formation: Founded in 1902 in Calcutta.
– Leaders: Aurobindo Ghosh, Barindra Kumar Ghosh, and others.
– Methods: Advocated armed resistance and political terrorism against the British.

2. Ghadar Party:
– Formation: Established in 1913 by Indian immigrants in the United States.
– Leaders: Lala Har Dayal, Sohan Singh Bhakna, Kartar Singh Sarabha.
– Methods: Aimed at armed rebellion against British rule. Published the Ghadar newspaper to spread revolutionary ideas.

3. Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA):
– Formation: Formed in 1928.
– Leaders: Chandra Shekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, Rajguru, and others.
– Methods: Advocated the overthrow of British rule through armed struggle. Carried out acts of violence, including the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly.

4. Kakori Conspiracy:
– Date: 1925.
– Leaders Involved: Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri, and others.
– Action: Executed a train robbery near Kakori to fund revolutionary activities.

5. Chittagong Armoury Raid:
– Date: 1930.
– Leaders Involved: Surya Sen (Masterda), Ganesh Ghosh, Lokenath Bal, and others.
– Action: Raided the Chittagong Armoury to procure weapons for an armed uprising against the British.

6. Bhagat Singh and HSRA Martyrdom:
– Date: 1931.
– Leaders Involved: Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev Thapar.
– Action: Executed for their involvement in the killing of J.P. Saunders, a police officer, to protest against repressive laws.

7. Colonel N.S. Gilani’s Attempt:
– Date: 1931.
– Action: Attempted to assassinate Viceroy Lord Irwin.
– Outcome: Arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment.

8. Revolutionary Jatin Das:
– Date: 1929.
– Action: Undertook a hunger strike in prison to protest against inhuman treatment.
– Outcome: Died after a 63-day hunger strike, becoming a symbol of resistance.

Legacy and Impact:

– Inspiration for Later Movements: The sacrifices and actions of these revolutionaries inspired future generations and movements in the struggle for independence.

– Shift Towards Nonviolence: While the revolutionaries sought armed resistance, the Gandhian philosophy of nonviolence gained prominence as a more widely adopted strategy in the later phases of the nationalist movement.

– Recognition as Freedom Fighters: Post-independence, these revolutionaries have been recognized as freedom fighters, and their contributions are commemorated in various ways across India.

The actions of these revolutionaries were a testament to the diverse strategies employed in the fight against British colonialism, ranging from nonviolent civil disobedience to armed resistance. Their legacy continues to be an integral part of India’s history and the narrative of its struggle for independence.

Socialists

The socialist movement during the Indian nationalist movement was a significant ideological current that sought to address issues of social and economic inequality alongside the broader goal of achieving political independence. Socialists in India were influenced by socialist and Marxist ideologies and aimed to build a more just and equitable society. Here are the full details of the socialists during the time of the Indian national movement:

Emergence and Context:

1. Influence of Socialist Ideology:
– The influence of socialist and Marxist ideas gained prominence in India during the early 20th century, particularly in the context of global socialist movements.

2. Impact of Economic Injustice:
– The socialists were motivated by the economic exploitation and social injustices prevalent under British colonial rule, including issues such as landlordism, agrarian distress, and industrial labor exploitation.

Socialist Leaders and Organizations:

3. Jaya Prakash Narayan (JP):
– Jaya Prakash Narayan, often referred to as JP, was a key socialist leader. He played a significant role in mobilizing peasants and advocated for socio-economic reforms.

4. Acharya Narendra Dev:
– Acharya Narendra Dev was another prominent socialist leader who worked for the upliftment of the oppressed and marginalized sections of society.

5. Socialist Party:
– The Socialist Party of India was formed in 1948 and played a crucial role in articulating socialist principles within the broader context of the Indian nationalist movement.

6. Trade Unions and Workers’ Movements:
– Socialists were actively involved in organizing trade unions and workers’ movements, advocating for the rights of industrial laborers.

Ideological Foundations:

7. Socialist Principles:
– Socialists emphasized the principles of social justice, equality, and the need for economic reforms.
– They sought to address issues such as land redistribution, workers’ rights, and the elimination of caste-based discrimination.

8. Agrarian Reforms:
– Socialists were often at the forefront of agrarian movements, advocating for land reforms to address the concentration of landownership in the hands of a few landlords.

9. Role of State in Economic Planning:
– Socialists believed in the active role of the state in economic planning and intervention to ensure equitable distribution of resources.

Contributions to the Nationalist Movement:

10. Integration with the Congress:
– Socialists were active within the Indian National Congress and sought to influence its policies from within.
– Leaders like JP and Acharya Narendra Dev worked closely with the Congress but often maintained an independent stance on socialist principles.

11. JP’s Role in Quit India Movement:
– JP played a crucial role in the Quit India Movement and was imprisoned for his participation in the struggle for independence.

12. Post-Independence Contributions:
– Post-independence, socialists continued to contribute to Indian politics, with some leaders like JP becoming key figures in movements for democratic rights and against corruption.

Legacy:

13. Impact on Social Policies:
– The socialist movement had a lasting impact on the formulation of social policies in independent India, influencing debates on issues like land reforms, labor rights, and social justice.

14. Political Parties and Movements:
– The socialist ideology continued to influence political parties and movements in India, with socialist principles being integral to the agendas of several political entities.

The socialist movement during the time of the Indian nationalist movement represented a commitment to addressing economic and social disparities alongside the pursuit of political freedom. While their influence was sometimes overshadowed by other ideological currents, the principles and contributions of socialists left a lasting imprint on the socio-political landscape of independent India.

Communists

Communists played a distinctive role during the Indian nationalist movement, particularly in the pre-independence era. The Communist Party of India (CPI) was formed in 1925, and its members were involved in various aspects of the freedom struggle. Here are detailed insights into the participation of Communists during the time of the Indian national movement:

Formation of the Communist Party of India (CPI):

1. Establishment:
– The Communist Party of India (CPI) was founded on December 26, 1925, in Kanpur.
– Influenced by the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia and Marxist ideologies, the CPI aimed to address socio-economic issues and work towards national liberation.

Communist Contribution to the Nationalist Movement:

2. Trade Union Movements:
– Communists actively participated in trade union movements and workers’ struggles across the country.
– Leaders like S.A. Dange and Shaukat Usmani were prominent in organizing workers and advocating for their rights.

3. Peasant Movements:
– Communists were actively involved in peasant movements, addressing agrarian issues and advocating for the rights of farmers.
– The Tebhaga movement in Bengal (1946-1947) was one such instance where communists played a key role.

4. Anti-Imperialist Struggle:
– Communists were staunchly anti-imperialist and participated in various movements against British colonial rule.
– They contributed to the broader struggle for independence alongside other nationalist forces.

5. Role in INA Trials:
– Communists were involved in defending leaders of the Indian National Army (INA) during the INA trials, providing legal assistance to figures like Captain Lakshmi Sahgal.

6. World War II and Quit India Movement:
– During World War II, the CPI initially supported the Allied forces against fascism.
– However, the party later aligned with the Quit India Movement in 1942, demanding an end to British rule.

7. Post-Independence Political Landscape:
– After independence in 1947, the CPI continued its involvement in Indian politics, participating in elections and advocating for socialist policies.

8. Telangana Armed Struggle:
– In the late 1940s, the CPI played a significant role in the Telangana armed struggle, a peasant uprising against feudal landlords.

Communist Role in Post-Independence India:

9. Participation in Elections:
– The CPI participated in electoral politics, winning seats in various state legislatures and the Parliament.
– E.M.S. Namboodiripad became the first communist chief minister in India, leading the government in Kerala in 1957.

10. Split in the Communist Movement:
– In 1964, the CPI underwent a split, leading to the formation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)].
– The split was largely over ideological differences and the party’s approach towards parliamentary politics.

11. Naxalite Movement:
– In the late 1960s, a radical offshoot of the CPI(M), known as the Naxalites, emerged, advocating for armed struggle against the state.
– The movement was named after Naxalbari in West Bengal, where a peasant uprising occurred.

12. Contemporary Political Landscape:
– Communists, both from the CPI and the CPI(M), continue to be active in Indian politics, participating in elections and advocating for social justice and labor rights.

Conclusion:

Communists played a multifaceted role during the Indian national movement, contributing to workers’ and peasants’ struggles, participating in anti-colonial movements, and advocating for socio-economic justice. The split in the communist movement led to different approaches and strategies, with both the CPI and CPI(M) continuing to be influential political forces in contemporary India.