The formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885 marks a significant milestone in the history of India’s struggle for independence. The INC emerged as a pivotal platform for articulating the aspirations of the Indian people and advocating for their rights and interests. This transformative event laid the foundation for organized political activism and collective resistance against British colonial rule. Understanding the circumstances and motivations behind the formation of the Indian National Congress provides crucial insights into the evolution of India’s nationalist movement and its quest for freedom.
In December 1885, a national party called the Indian National Congress was established. It was founded by Allan Octavian Hume, who worked for the British government. Around 72 representatives from different parts of India came together in Bombay from December 28 to December 30 to form the party. Hume played a significant role as the first general secretary of the party. The main aim of forming this party was to bring together educated people from all over India and influence political decisions.
Why INC?
- The Safety Valve Theory suggests that the Indian National Congress (INC) was formed mainly to prevent another uprising like the Indian Mutiny of 1857. Allan Octavian Hume proposed this theory with the intention of avoiding rebellion.
- Hume believed that by allowing Indians to express their grievances through the INC, the British could prevent a mass uprising.
- Extremist leaders such as Lala Lajpat Rai supported this theory, while Marxist historians developed a “conspiracy hypothesis” based on it.
- However, modern Indian historians are skeptical of the Safety Valve Theory. They argue that the INC was established to provide a platform for politically aware Indians to express their concerns.
- According to historian Bipan Chandra, early Congress officials used Hume as a means to bring people together, rather than as a safety valve for British interests.
Objectives of Indian National Congress
- Establish a nationwide organization aimed at fostering a democratic and nationalist movement across India.
- Promote unity among nationalist activists by advocating for an anti-colonial nationalist ideology.
- Foster national unity regardless of religious, caste, or regional differences.
- Educate the populace about colonial exploitation and Indian political rights, pushing for increased Indian representation in councils and the Indianization of the civil service.
- Develop and propose public demands to the government to unite people around common political and economic goals.
Features of Indian National Congress
- The Indian National Congress (INC) was the first nationwide political movement in India, initially focused on increasing Indian involvement in politics.
- Over time, its goal evolved to achieving complete independence for India, becoming a major political force after independence.
- In its early years, the INC was moderate, preferring constitutional debates and tactics.
- Initially, its demands were limited to increasing Indian representation in the military and administration.
- However, over time, the party’s demands and strategies became more radical.
- By 1905, the party had split into moderates and extremists.
- Provincial conferences, organizations, media, and literature joined the INC in promoting nationalist activities.
Also read: Political Association Before the Indian National Congress.