Before the Indian National Congress (INC) emerged as the primary political force in India’s struggle for independence, various political associations played crucial roles in laying the groundwork for organized resistance against British colonial rule. These early associations represented diverse interests and ideologies, ranging from reformist to radical, and they contributed to shaping the trajectory of India’s nationalist movement. Understanding the history and contributions of these political associations provides valuable insights into the evolution of India’s struggle for freedom
Political Association in Bengal
Bangabhasha Prakasika Sabha (1836):
- Founded in 1836, this organization aimed to promote the Bengali language and its literature.
- It played a significant role in nurturing regional identity and cultural pride among Bengalis.
Zamindari Association (1838):
- Established in 1838, the Zamindari Association, or Landholders’ Society, advocated for the interests of landowners.
- It sought to protect the rights and privileges of zamindars against encroachments by the British administration.
Bengal British India Society (1843):
- Formed in 1843, the Bengal British India Society focused on gathering and spreading information about the living conditions of people in British India.
- Its efforts aimed to raise awareness about social issues and advocate for reforms to improve the quality of life for Indians.
British Indian Association (1851):
- Founded in 1851, the British Indian Association pushed for significant reforms in British India.
- It called for the establishment of a more representative legislature, separation of executive and judicial powers, salary reductions for high-ranking officials, and the abolition of certain taxes.
- Some of its demands were partially met in the Charter Act of 1853.
East India Association (1866):
- Established by Dadabhai Naoroji in London in 1866, the East India Association focused on discussing issues related to India and advocating for Indian welfare.
- It aimed to influence British policymakers and public opinion towards supporting Indian interests.
Indian League (1875):
- Founded in 1875 by Sisir Kumar Ghosh, the Indian League aimed to foster a sense of nationalism among Indians.
- It worked towards promoting unity and collective action among Indians for their rights and interests.
Indian National Association (1876):
- Founded by Surendranath Banerjee and Ananda Mohan Bose in 1876, the Indian National Association of Calcutta sought to address Indian grievances and promote nationalist sentiments.
- It played a pivotal role in mobilizing public opinion and laying the groundwork for the Indian nationalist movement.
These organizations, with their varied goals and approaches, played crucial roles in shaping Indian society and politics during the pre-independence era. They laid the foundation for later movements and contributed to the eventual emergence of the Indian National Congress as a leading force in the struggle for independence.
Political Associations in Bombay
Poona Sarvajanik Sabha (1870):
- Established in 1870, the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha served as a bridge between the government and the people.
- It aimed to address the needs and concerns of the public while fostering communication and cooperation with the authorities.
Bombay Presidency Association (1885):
- Founded in 1885 by Badruddin Tyabji, Pherozshah Mehta, and K.T. Telang, the Bombay Presidency Association was a prominent political organization.
- It worked towards advocating for the interests of the people of Bombay Presidency and played a significant role in shaping political discourse in the region.
Political Associations in Madras
Madras Mahajan Sabha (1884):
- Established in 1884 by M. Viraraghavachari, B. Subramania Aiyer, and P. Anandacharlu, the Madras Mahajan Sabha was a key political association in Madras.
- It focused on addressing social and political issues affecting the region and played a vital role in mobilizing public opinion and advocating for reforms.
These political associations in Bombay and Madras played important roles in representing the interests of the people, fostering dialogue with the government, and advocating for social and political reforms. They contributed to the development of political consciousness and activism in their respective regions, laying the groundwork for future political movements and organizations.
Also Read: Beginning of Modern Nationalism in India.