Modern History Playlist
19 chapters • 0 completed
1
Advent of Europeans in India
9 topics
2
Decline of the Mughal Empire
7 topics
3
Emergence of Regional States
11 topics
4
Expansion and Consolidation of British Power
19 topics
5
British Government & Economic Policies (1757–1857)
4 topics
6
Social Reform Movements
20 topics
7
People’s Resistance before 1857
3 topics
8
The revolt of 1857
6 topics
9
Growth of Nationalism and Moderate Phase of Congress
6 topics
10
British Administration in India
7 topics
11
Era of Militant Nationalism (1905-1909)
5 topics
12
First Phase of Revolutionary Activities(1907-1917)
8 topics
13
India’s Response to First World War and Home Rule Movement
4 topics
14
Emergence of Gandhi
6 topics
15
Non-Cooperation Movement and Khilafat Movement
7 topics
16
Emergence of Swarajists, Socialist Ideas, Revolutionary Activities
5 topics
17
Struggle For Swaraj: 1928-1935
13 topics
18
Period from 1935-42
9 topics
19
Period from 1942-47
22 topics
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Chapter 18: Period from 1935-42
Chapter Test9 topics•Estimated reading: 27 minutes
Period from 1935–42: First Stage Debate, Second Stage Debate, and Struggle–Truce–Struggle
Key Point
The period from 1935–42 was marked by intense debates within the Congress about strategy after the Government of India Act, 1935. Leaders differed on whether to accept provincial ministries, cooperate with the British, or continue confrontation. The phase came to be known as 'struggle–truce–struggle', reflecting alternating strategies of confrontation and compromise.
The period from 1935–42 was marked by intense debates within the Congress about strategy after the Government of India Act, 1935. Leaders differed on whether to accept provincial ministries, cooperate with the British, or continue confrontation. The phase came to be known as 'struggle–truce–struggle', reflecting alternating strategies of confrontation and compromise.
Detailed Notes (18 points)
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First Stage Debate (1935–37):
• After the Government of India Act, 1935, a debate arose in Congress whether to contest elections and form ministries under a limited constitution.
• 'Pro-changers' like Nehru initially opposed participation, calling it a trap to strengthen colonial rule.
• 'Pragmatists' like Rajendra Prasad, Sardar Patel, and Rajagopalachari supported contesting elections to use provincial power as a platform for mass mobilization.
• Gandhi advised contesting elections as a tactical step.
• Outcome: Congress decided to participate in 1937 provincial elections.
Second Stage Debate (1937–39):
• Congress swept elections in 1937 and formed ministries in 7 provinces.
• Ministries introduced progressive reforms: abolition of untouchability, expansion of education, tenancy rights, pro-labour measures, reduction of land revenue in some regions.
• Internal debate: Nehru and Subhas Bose wanted to use power more radically for mass mobilization, while conservatives like Patel emphasized administration.
• Subhas Bose resigned as Congress President in 1939 over differences (Tripuri Crisis).
Struggle–Truce–Struggle (1939–42):
• World War II began in 1939; British unilaterally involved India without consulting Indians.
• Congress ministries resigned in protest (1939).
• Initial phase (1939): Congress demanded declaration of war aims and promise of independence → denied by British.
• Truce phase (1939–40): Gandhi pursued limited negotiations; hoped British would offer concessions.
• Struggle phase (1940–42): Failure of Cripps Mission (1942) and British intransigence led to launch of Quit India Movement (1942).
• Hence the description: 'Struggle (till 1935) – Truce (1937–39 ministries) – Struggle (1939–42 leading to Quit India)'.
Congress Strategy, 1935–42
| Phase | Years | Strategy | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Stage Debate | 1935–37 | Debate on elections; Congress decided to contest | Congress prepared for elections |
| Second Stage Debate | 1937–39 | Congress ministries formed; reforms introduced | Tripuri Crisis; Bose resigned |
| Struggle–Truce–Struggle | 1939–42 | War participation opposed; ministries resigned; Quit India later | Congress moved towards mass struggle |
Fun Facts
The 1937 elections under the 1935 Act were the first time Congress exercised real administrative power.
Subhas Bose defeated Gandhi’s candidate Pattabhi Sitaramayya in 1939 Congress elections but still had to resign.
The phrase 'Struggle–Truce–Struggle' was used by historians to capture the oscillation in Congress strategy.
Mains Key Points
The period 1935–42 highlighted deep divisions in Congress strategy between radicals and moderates.
Provincial ministries (1937–39) showed both the potential and limits of working within colonial framework.
Resignation of ministries in 1939 reflected Congress commitment to independence over collaboration.
The cycle of struggle–truce–struggle prepared the ground for the Quit India Movement of 1942.
Prelims Strategy Tips
Congress won 1937 provincial elections and formed ministries in 7 provinces.
Tripuri Crisis (1939) → Subhas Bose resigned as Congress President.
Congress ministries resigned in 1939 when India was dragged into World War II.
Period described as 'Struggle–Truce–Struggle'.
1937 Elections and Formation of Congress Ministries
Key Point
The 1937 provincial elections, held under the Government of India Act, 1935, marked the first large-scale electoral test for Indian nationalists. The Congress contested on a strong anti-colonial manifesto and emerged victorious in most provinces, forming ministries in 7 provinces by 1937.
The 1937 provincial elections, held under the Government of India Act, 1935, marked the first large-scale electoral test for Indian nationalists. The Congress contested on a strong anti-colonial manifesto and emerged victorious in most provinces, forming ministries in 7 provinces by 1937.
Detailed Notes (18 points)
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Congress Manifesto for Election (1936):
• Declared opposition to the Government of India Act, 1935 but decided to contest elections tactically.
• Demanded release of political prisoners and repeal of repressive laws.
• Promised reduction of land revenue and rent, relief to peasants, better conditions for workers.
• Commitment to civil liberties, removal of untouchability, and promotion of education.
• Stressed constructive programme as advocated by Gandhi.
Congress’ Performance in 1937 Elections:
• Elections held in 11 provinces.
• Congress contested 716 out of 1,585 total seats and won 715 seats.
• Emerged as majority in 6 provinces: Madras, Bombay, Central Provinces, United Provinces, Bihar, Orissa.
• Became largest party in NWFP (North-West Frontier Province) and Assam.
• Muslim League performed poorly, winning only 108 out of 485 Muslim seats.
Formation of Congress Ministries:
• Initially hesitant to form ministries under 1935 Act (due to Governor’s overriding powers).
• After assurance from the Viceroy that Governors would not misuse special powers, Congress ministries were formed in July 1937.
• Congress ministries were formed in 7 provinces: Madras, Bombay, Central Provinces, United Provinces, Bihar, Orissa, NWFP.
• In Assam, Congress supported a coalition ministry.
• Congress ministries undertook reforms in education, agrarian relief, labor welfare, prohibition, and removal of untouchability.
Congress Performance in 1937 Elections
| Province | Result |
|---|---|
| Madras | Congress majority |
| Bombay | Congress majority |
| Central Provinces | Congress majority |
| United Provinces | Congress majority |
| Bihar | Congress majority |
| Orissa | Congress majority |
| NWFP | Largest party, ministry formed |
| Assam | Supported coalition |
Fun Facts
These were the first elections in India where Congress formed popular ministries.
The ministries lasted until 1939 when they resigned in protest against India’s forced participation in WWII.
In Madras, C. Rajagopalachari introduced prohibition of liquor.
Mains Key Points
1937 elections marked the entry of Congress into actual governance.
Congress ministries showcased administrative capability and implemented reforms.
Failure of Muslim League foreshadowed communal tensions and led to its reorganization.
Resignation of ministries in 1939 was a strong nationalist protest against colonial war policy.
Prelims Strategy Tips
1937 elections held under Government of India Act, 1935.
Congress won absolute majority in 6 provinces, ministries in 7.
Muslim League performed poorly; did not form government anywhere.
Congress ministries formed in July 1937 after initial hesitation.
Work Under Congress Ministries (1937–1939)
Key Point
The Congress ministries (1937–1939) introduced significant reforms in education, agrarian relief, labor welfare, prohibition, and social justice. Despite limitations due to Governor’s powers, they demonstrated administrative capability and increased people’s faith in Congress as a governing body.
The Congress ministries (1937–1939) introduced significant reforms in education, agrarian relief, labor welfare, prohibition, and social justice. Despite limitations due to Governor’s powers, they demonstrated administrative capability and increased people’s faith in Congress as a governing body.
Detailed Notes (32 points)
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Agrarian Reforms:
• Reduced land revenue and rent in several provinces (e.g., U.P., Bihar).
• Laws for tenancy rights and protection of peasants from eviction.
• Debt relief legislation introduced in provinces like Madras and Bombay.
Labor Reforms:
• Improved working conditions in factories and mines.
• Recognition of trade unions and minimum wage laws in some provinces.
• Regulation of working hours and introduction of welfare schemes.
Education:
• Expansion of primary and secondary education.
• Free and compulsory primary education introduced in some provinces.
• Special emphasis on vernacular and technical education.
• Support for National Education and Hindi promotion.
Social Reforms:
• Campaigns against untouchability; temple entry allowed in some places.
• Welfare programmes for Harijans and backward classes.
• Women’s empowerment promoted through education and participation.
Prohibition and Public Health:
• Madras (C. Rajagopalachari) introduced prohibition of liquor.
• Health measures to tackle epidemics and improve sanitation.
Political and Civil Liberties:
• Release of many political prisoners.
• Relaxation of press restrictions.
• Encouragement of local self-government institutions.
Limitations:
• Governors retained veto and overriding powers under the 1935 Act.
• Financial constraints limited scope of reforms.
• Some radical leaders criticized Congress ministries for being too cautious.
Significance:
• Demonstrated Congress’ capacity to govern responsibly.
• Created a base of support among peasants, workers, and lower classes.
• Experience of governance helped Congress prepare for post-independence administration.
Key Reforms by Congress Ministries (1937–39)
| Sector | Reforms |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Rent reduction, tenancy protection, debt relief laws |
| Labor | Recognition of unions, working hours regulated, welfare schemes |
| Education | Free & compulsory primary education, promotion of Hindi & technical studies |
| Social | Campaigns against untouchability, welfare for Harijans, women’s empowerment |
| Health & Prohibition | Liquor prohibition in Madras, sanitation & epidemic control measures |
| Civil Liberties | Political prisoners released, press restrictions relaxed |
Fun Facts
In Madras, prohibition caused large protests from liquor sellers but was popular among rural poor.
In UP, Govind Ballabh Pant pushed strong tenancy reforms, winning peasant support.
These ministries gave Congress practical experience in running governance before independence.
Mains Key Points
Congress ministries showed that nationalist leadership could handle governance responsibly.
They implemented reforms benefiting peasants, workers, Harijans, and women, strengthening social base.
However, limited by Governor’s overriding powers and financial constraints, reforms remained partial.
The resignation of ministries in 1939 elevated their nationalist image as defenders of independence.
Prelims Strategy Tips
Madras ministry under C. Rajagopalachari introduced prohibition of liquor.
UP and Bihar reduced land revenue and granted tenancy protection.
Congress ministries lasted till 1939; resigned after WWII outbreak.
1935 Act limited Congress ministries due to Governor’s special powers.
Nationalist Response in the Wake of World War II (1939–1942)
Key Point
World War II exposed deep divisions within Indian nationalism. Gandhi emphasized non-violent opposition and demanded independence before cooperation, while Subhas Chandra Bose advocated militant struggle and sought to use the war to launch an armed revolt with international support.
World War II exposed deep divisions within Indian nationalism. Gandhi emphasized non-violent opposition and demanded independence before cooperation, while Subhas Chandra Bose advocated militant struggle and sought to use the war to launch an armed revolt with international support.
Detailed Notes (20 points)
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Background:
• On 3 September 1939, Viceroy Linlithgow declared India at war without consulting Indian leaders.
• Congress protested this unilateral decision.
• In October 1939, Congress ministries resigned from 7 provinces in protest.
Gandhi’s Views:
• Gandhi emphasized India’s moral right to independence.
• Stated that India could not support Britain’s war effort without a clear promise of freedom.
• Advocated non-violent resistance (satyagraha) as the only legitimate response.
• Initially restrained mass struggle but encouraged 'Individual Satyagraha' (1940–41) to express opposition.
• Saw the war as an opportunity for British to show sincerity towards democracy by granting Indian independence.
Subhas Chandra Bose’s Views:
• Considered the war a golden opportunity to weaken Britain and launch a national revolt.
• Advocated immediate mass struggle and militant action.
• Resigned from Congress presidency (1939 Tripuri Crisis) and formed Forward Bloc.
• During war, escaped house arrest in 1941, went abroad, and organized the Indian National Army (INA) with Axis support.
• His motto: 'Enemy’s enemy is our friend'—alliance with Germany, later Japan, to fight British rule.
Broader Nationalist Response:
• Congress: Demanded declaration of war aims, independence, and inclusion of Indians in decision-making.
• Muslim League: Supported British war effort, expecting political concessions, strengthening its bargaining power.
• The divergence between Gandhi’s non-violent satyagraha and Bose’s militant path reflected broader debates in nationalist strategy.
Contrasting Views: Gandhi vs. Bose during WWII
| Leader | Strategy | Approach to WWII |
|---|---|---|
| Gandhi | Non-violent satyagraha | Support Britain only if independence promised |
| Subhas Bose | Militant struggle, armed revolt | Use war to ally with Axis powers to defeat Britain |
Fun Facts
Bose escaped from house arrest in Calcutta in 1941 disguised as a Pathan before reaching Germany.
Gandhi described WWII as a 'clash between imperialists' but still sought India’s moral stance.
The Congress resignation of ministries in 1939 was celebrated by Muslim League as 'Deliverance Day'.
Mains Key Points
WWII created a critical divide between moderates (seeking negotiation) and radicals (seeking armed struggle).
Gandhi’s insistence on non-violence contrasted with Bose’s advocacy of militarism.
The resignation of Congress ministries highlighted Congress’ unwillingness to support imperial wars without independence.
The nationalist response during WWII shaped the path towards Quit India (1942) and INA’s role in independence struggle.
Prelims Strategy Tips
1939: Congress ministries resigned after WWII declaration.
Gandhi: Opposed war participation without independence → Individual Satyagraha (1940).
Bose: Advocated militant struggle, later formed INA with Axis powers.
Muslim League supported British war effort, gaining political concessions.
Haripura Session of Congress (1938) and Tripuri Crisis (1939)
Key Point
The Haripura Session (1938) under Subhas Chandra Bose highlighted progressive economic and social planning, but his radical leadership clashed with conservatives. The Tripuri Session (1939) exposed this rift, with Bose re-elected against Gandhi’s wishes, leading to deep divisions and Bose’s eventual resignation.
The Haripura Session (1938) under Subhas Chandra Bose highlighted progressive economic and social planning, but his radical leadership clashed with conservatives. The Tripuri Session (1939) exposed this rift, with Bose re-elected against Gandhi’s wishes, leading to deep divisions and Bose’s eventual resignation.
Detailed Notes (17 points)
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Haripura Session of Congress (1938):
• Held in Haripura, Gujarat; presided over by Subhas Chandra Bose.
• Bose emphasized socialist ideals, large-scale industrialization, and strong central planning for India’s economic reconstruction.
• Stressed unity of workers and peasants, and proposed National Planning Committee (later set up under Nehru).
• Advocated strengthening Congress organization to prepare for mass struggle.
• Reflected growing leftist influence in Congress.
Tripuri Crisis (1939):
• Congress session held at Tripuri, near Jabalpur.
• Bose stood for re-election as Congress President; Gandhi supported Pattabhi Sitaramayya.
• Despite Gandhi’s disapproval, Bose was re-elected (1939).
• However, Gandhian leaders (Patel, Rajendra Prasad, Rajagopalachari) refused to cooperate under Bose’s leadership.
• Bose was forced to resign due to lack of working majority.
• He later formed the Forward Bloc (1939) to mobilize left-wing forces within Congress.
Significance:
• Haripura showed Congress’ radical potential for economic and social transformation.
• Tripuri Crisis highlighted Gandhian dominance and Congress’ inability to reconcile ideological differences.
• Bose’s exit marked a split between radical and moderate-nationalist strategies during WWII.
Haripura vs. Tripuri Sessions of Congress
| Session | Year | Leader | Main Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haripura | 1938 | Subhas Chandra Bose | Emphasis on socialist ideals, planning, workers-peasants unity |
| Tripuri | 1939 | Subhas Chandra Bose (re-elected) | Clash with Gandhi; Bose resigned; later formed Forward Bloc |
Fun Facts
At Haripura, Bose’s presidential address was drafted by Nehru but delivered in Bose’s charismatic style.
Gandhi called Bose’s re-election in 1939 his 'personal defeat'.
Bose’s Forward Bloc later became a platform for radical nationalists and leftists.
Mains Key Points
Haripura session represented the rise of socialist and radical thought within Congress.
Tripuri crisis reflected the organizational dominance of Gandhi and the limits of radicalism within Congress structure.
Bose’s exit deepened ideological divide in Indian nationalism on how to fight colonialism during WWII.
The episodes showed Congress’ inability to reconcile diverse visions of nationalism under one umbrella.
Prelims Strategy Tips
Haripura Session (1938) → Bose as President, emphasis on socialist planning.
Tripuri Crisis (1939) → Bose re-elected against Gandhi’s wishes but forced to resign.
Forward Bloc founded by Subhas Chandra Bose in 1939 after Tripuri crisis.
Bose’s Resignation, Post-Tripuri Developments, and INC’s Stand on World War II
Key Point
After the Tripuri crisis (1939), Subhas Chandra Bose resigned due to opposition from Gandhian leaders. He later founded the Forward Bloc to consolidate left forces. Meanwhile, the outbreak of World War II forced the Congress to clarify its position: it refused to support Britain without a promise of Indian independence, leading to the resignation of Congress ministries in 1939.
After the Tripuri crisis (1939), Subhas Chandra Bose resigned due to opposition from Gandhian leaders. He later founded the Forward Bloc to consolidate left forces. Meanwhile, the outbreak of World War II forced the Congress to clarify its position: it refused to support Britain without a promise of Indian independence, leading to the resignation of Congress ministries in 1939.
Detailed Notes (19 points)
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Bose’s Resignation:
• After winning the 1939 Tripuri session presidential election against Gandhi’s candidate, Bose faced strong resistance from Gandhian leaders (Patel, Rajendra Prasad, Rajagopalachari).
• Unable to work with the Congress Working Committee dominated by Gandhi’s supporters, Bose resigned in April 1939.
• He later formed the Forward Bloc (May 1939) to bring together left-wing forces within Congress.
Post-Tripuri Developments:
• Forward Bloc promoted socialist policies, peasant-worker mobilization, and radical struggle against colonialism.
• Congress leadership under Gandhi focused on maintaining unity and preparing for constitutional negotiations.
• Subhas Bose was later placed under house arrest (1940) and eventually escaped to organize the Indian National Army abroad.
INC’s Stand on World War II:
• On 3 September 1939, Viceroy Linlithgow declared India at war without consulting Indian leaders.
• Congress objected to unilateral decision and demanded a statement of war aims and a clear promise of independence.
• British refusal led to resignation of Congress ministries in October 1939.
• Gandhi opposed violent methods and proposed limited protest (Individual Satyagraha, 1940).
• Nehru saw the war as a fight against fascism but insisted that India must be free before participating.
• Muslim League, unlike Congress, supported the British war effort, expecting political concessions (later leading to 'Deliverance Day' celebrations in 1939).
Significance:
• Bose’s resignation highlighted ideological fractures within Congress.
• Congress’ stand on WWII demonstrated its unwillingness to support imperial wars without independence.
• This phase laid the foundation for the Quit India Movement (1942) and Bose’s INA struggle from abroad.
INC’s Response to World War II vs. Bose’s Approach
| Leader/Body | Approach |
|---|---|
| INC (1939) | Refused support without independence; ministries resigned |
| Gandhi | Non-violent opposition; Individual Satyagraha (1940) |
| Nehru | Against fascism but demanded freedom before support |
| Bose | Advocated militant struggle; sought Axis support abroad |
| Muslim League | Supported British war effort; expected concessions |
Fun Facts
Bose escaped house arrest in 1941 disguised as a Pathan, later reaching Germany and Japan.
Congress’ resignation of ministries gave Muslim League a chance to expand its influence.
Gandhi described WWII as a 'clash of civilizations' but insisted on India’s freedom first.
Mains Key Points
Bose’s resignation exposed deep ideological rifts within Congress between radicals and Gandhian moderates.
INC’s stance on WWII marked its refusal to collaborate in imperial wars without independence.
The resignation of Congress ministries in 1939 shifted political momentum towards Muslim League.
This period prepared the ground for two parallel paths: Gandhi’s Quit India Movement and Bose’s INA struggle.
Prelims Strategy Tips
Bose resigned as Congress President in April 1939 after Tripuri crisis.
Forward Bloc founded in May 1939.
Congress ministries resigned in October 1939 after WWII outbreak.
Muslim League celebrated 'Deliverance Day' in Dec 1939 after Congress resignations.
August Offer (1940) and Nationalist Response
Key Point
The August Offer of 1940 was Britain’s attempt to secure Indian support in World War II by promising post-war dominion status and expansion of councils. However, Congress rejected it as inadequate, demanding complete independence, while the Muslim League welcomed it as recognition of minority rights.
The August Offer of 1940 was Britain’s attempt to secure Indian support in World War II by promising post-war dominion status and expansion of councils. However, Congress rejected it as inadequate, demanding complete independence, while the Muslim League welcomed it as recognition of minority rights.
Detailed Notes (23 points)
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Background:
• WWII intensified by 1940; Britain needed India’s cooperation.
• Lord Linlithgow (Viceroy) announced the August Offer on 8 August 1940.
Main Provisions of August Offer:
• Promise of Dominion Status for India after the war.
• Expansion of Viceroy’s Executive Council to include more Indians.
• War Advisory Council to include Indian representatives.
• Assurance that no new constitution would be framed without the consent of minorities.
Nationalist Response:
Congress:
– Rejected the offer as vague and inadequate.
– Gandhi: Called it 'a post-dated cheque on a crashing bank'.
– Continued demand for complete independence before supporting war efforts.
Muslim League:
– Welcomed the offer as it recognized minorities' veto in constitutional matters.
– Saw it as strengthening its bargaining power.
Other Groups:
– Hindu Mahasabha supported British war effort.
– Liberals accepted the offer as a step forward.
Significance:
• Marked the first official recognition of minorities' consent as essential in constitutional reform.
• Deepened Congress–League divide.
• Led to launch of Gandhi’s Individual Satyagraha (October 1940) as a limited movement against British war policy.
August Offer 1940: Provisions and Reactions
| Aspect | Provision/Response |
|---|---|
| Political Promise | Dominion Status after WWII |
| Council Expansion | More Indians in Viceroy’s Executive Council |
| Minorities | Assurance of veto in constitutional reforms |
| Congress Response | Rejected as vague; Gandhi’s 'post-dated cheque' remark |
| Muslim League Response | Welcomed; strengthened demand for minority rights |
| Outcome | Triggered Individual Satyagraha (1940) |
Fun Facts
August Offer was the first time Britain mentioned Dominion Status after the war, but India had already moved to demand full independence.
Muslim League celebrated the offer as a diplomatic win, calling it a recognition of 'Two-Nation Theory' indirectly.
It pushed Gandhi to shift from waiting mode to launching Individual Satyagraha in 1940.
Mains Key Points
August Offer was Britain’s attempt to secure Indian cooperation during WWII without granting real freedom.
Congress’ rejection marked its uncompromising demand for independence.
Muslim League’s acceptance highlighted deepening communal divisions.
It set the stage for Gandhi’s Individual Satyagraha (1940) and further constitutional deadlocks.
Prelims Strategy Tips
August Offer announced on 8 August 1940 by Lord Linlithgow.
Promised Dominion Status after WWII; minorities’ consent essential for constitution.
Gandhi’s reaction: 'a post-dated cheque on a crashing bank'.
Congress rejected; Muslim League welcomed.
Individual Satyagraha (1940–41)
Key Point
The Individual Satyagraha was launched by Gandhi in October 1940 as a limited movement to affirm Indians’ right to free speech and oppose India’s forced participation in World War II. Unlike mass movements, it was designed as a symbolic protest, starting with Vinoba Bhave and later Jawaharlal Nehru.
The Individual Satyagraha was launched by Gandhi in October 1940 as a limited movement to affirm Indians’ right to free speech and oppose India’s forced participation in World War II. Unlike mass movements, it was designed as a symbolic protest, starting with Vinoba Bhave and later Jawaharlal Nehru.
Detailed Notes (23 points)
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Background:
• Launched after the failure of the August Offer (1940).
• Gandhi rejected immediate mass struggle fearing repression and communal tensions.
• Chose limited, symbolic protests to demonstrate opposition to British war policy.
Objectives:
• Affirm Indians’ right to free expression against unjust war involvement.
• Show non-violent defiance while avoiding violent repression.
• Keep the spirit of resistance alive until conditions were ripe for a mass movement.
Course of the Movement:
• Launched on 17 October 1940.
• First satyagrahi: Vinoba Bhave.
• Second satyagrahi: Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Other prominent satyagrahis: Brahma Datt, Achyut Patwardhan, Jayaprakash Narayan, Ram Manohar Lohia.
• Each satyagrahi would speak publicly against war, court arrest, and be replaced by another.
• By May 1941, around 25,000 satyagrahis had been arrested.
Features:
• Unlike Non-Cooperation or Civil Disobedience, it was not a mass movement.
• Focused on symbolic, disciplined, non-violent protest.
• Allowed Congress to maintain political initiative without risking full-scale repression.
Outcome:
• Did not force major British concessions.
• Kept nationalist movement alive during wartime.
• Demonstrated Gandhi’s cautious approach, preparing ground for Quit India Movement (1942).
Key Facts: Individual Satyagraha (1940–41)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | 17 October 1940 |
| First Satyagrahi | Vinoba Bhave |
| Second Satyagrahi | Jawaharlal Nehru |
| Method | Symbolic public speeches against war → arrest |
| Arrests | Around 25,000 by May 1941 |
| Outcome | Kept nationalist momentum; prepared ground for Quit India |
Fun Facts
Gandhi chose Vinoba Bhave as the first satyagrahi to emphasize moral purity over political stature.
Unlike earlier mass movements, this was designed to avoid large-scale repression.
It was one of the smallest in scale but strategically vital in keeping the freedom struggle alive during WWII.
Mains Key Points
Individual Satyagraha was a tactical protest against British war policy without launching a mass struggle.
It allowed Congress to demonstrate nationalist resistance while avoiding mass repression.
It symbolized India’s right to freedom of speech and self-determination.
Though limited in scale, it sustained nationalist momentum leading to the Quit India Movement (1942).
Prelims Strategy Tips
Launched: 17 October 1940.
First Satyagrahi: Vinoba Bhave.
Second Satyagrahi: Jawaharlal Nehru.
About 25,000 arrested by 1941.
Symbolic protest → led to Quit India Movement (1942).
Cripps Mission (1942): Proposals, Response, and Failure
Key Point
The Cripps Mission of March 1942 was Britain’s last attempt to secure Indian cooperation in World War II by promising Dominion Status after the war and a new Constituent Assembly. While initially seen as a breakthrough, it was rejected by all major political groups, leading to its failure.
The Cripps Mission of March 1942 was Britain’s last attempt to secure Indian cooperation in World War II by promising Dominion Status after the war and a new Constituent Assembly. While initially seen as a breakthrough, it was rejected by all major political groups, leading to its failure.
Detailed Notes (32 points)
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Background:
• Japan’s entry into WWII (1941) and fall of Rangoon (1942) increased British urgency for Indian support.
• Sir Stafford Cripps, a Labour Party leader, was sent to India in March 1942 to negotiate with Indian leaders.
Main Proposals of Cripps Mission:
• Dominion Status to India after WWII.
• A Constituent Assembly to frame the new Constitution, elected partly by provincial assemblies and partly nominated by princes.
• Provinces had the right to not join the Union and form separate Constitutions → implied possible partition.
• Defence would remain under British control during the war.
• Indians to be immediately taken into Viceroy’s Executive Council.
Nationalist Response:
Congress:
– Rejected proposals; Nehru and Gandhi opposed provision allowing provinces to secede (seen as partition).
– Gandhi called it 'a post-dated cheque on a failing bank' (similar to August Offer).
– Demanded immediate transfer of power, not post-war promises.
Muslim League:
– Opposed as it did not guarantee Pakistan.
– Wanted explicit recognition of 'Two-Nation Theory'.
Hindu Mahasabha:
– Opposed idea of provinces opting out; feared disintegration of India.
• Princes:
– Welcomed, as it gave them option to remain outside Indian Union.
• Liberals:
– Accepted in principle but disappointed at vague timelines.
Reasons for Failure:
• No immediate transfer of power → only post-war promise.
• 'Right of provinces to secede' alienated Congress.
• Absence of explicit Pakistan guarantee alienated Muslim League.
• Defence under British control during war seen as unacceptable.
• British Government unwilling to concede real authority.
Significance:
• Failure convinced Gandhi that further negotiations were useless.
• Set stage for the Quit India Movement (August 1942).
Cripps Mission 1942: Proposals and Responses
| Proposal | Response |
|---|---|
| Dominion Status after WWII | Congress: Wanted immediate independence |
| Constituent Assembly | Accepted in principle but not immediate |
| Right of Provinces to Secede | Congress opposed; Muslim League wanted Pakistan explicitly |
| Defence under British control | Rejected by Congress |
| Inclusion of Indians in Viceroy’s Council | Seen as token concession |
Fun Facts
Cripps was considered a friend of India and came with liberal intentions, but his hands were tied by Churchill’s government.
Gandhi famously dismissed the proposals as another 'post-dated cheque'.
Failure of the mission directly triggered Quit India Movement in August 1942.
Mains Key Points
Cripps Mission was Britain’s last attempt to win Indian cooperation in WWII.
Its failure highlighted irreconcilable differences between Congress and Muslim League.
Provisions for provincial secession laid seeds for partition.
Marked the final breakdown of negotiations and prepared ground for Quit India Movement (1942).
Prelims Strategy Tips
Cripps Mission sent in March 1942 under Sir Stafford Cripps.
Promised Dominion Status and a Constituent Assembly after WWII.
Allowed provinces to opt out of Union → implied partition.
Rejected by both Congress (no immediate independence) and Muslim League (no Pakistan guarantee).
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