Q.13 Since the decade of the 1920s, the national movement acquired various ideological strands and thereby expanded its social base. Discuss.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The 1920s marked a significant phase in the Indian national movement, characterised by the emergence of diverse ideological strands and an expanded social base. This decade was crucial as it saw the transition from moderate constitutional methods to more radical and inclusive approaches, thereby galvanising a broader section of Indian society.

Body

The ideological strands that emerged during this period were varied:

• Constitutionalism: Leaders like Motilal Nehru and C.R. Das advocated for dominion status within the British Empire, leading to the formation of the Swaraj Party in 1923.
• Non-Cooperation: Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22) called for the boycott of British goods, institutions, and honours, emphasising non-violent resistance.
• Communism and Socialism: The 1920s saw the rise of leftist ideologies with the formation of the Communist Party of India in 1925. Leaders like M.N. Roy and S.A. Dange played pivotal roles in advocating for workers' rights and agrarian reforms.
• Revolutionary Nationalism: Groups like the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), founded by Ram Prasad Bismil and others, resorted to armed struggle against British rule. The Kakori Conspiracy (1925) was a notable event.
• Regionalism: Movements like the Akali Movement in Punjab sought to address regional and religious grievances, focusing on Sikh rights and reforms.

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The social base of the national movement also expanded significantly:

• Women: Leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Kamala Nehru mobilized women, who participated actively in protests, picketing, and boycotts.
• Students: The youth, inspired by leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose, played a crucial role in organising strikes and demonstrations.
• Workers and Peasants: The All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) was established in 1920, advocating for labor rights. Peasant movements, such as the Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, highlighted agrarian issues.
• Dalits and Tribals: B.R. Ambedkar emerged as a prominent leader advocating for the rights of Dalits, while tribal movements in regions like Chota Nagpur sought to address exploitation and displacement.

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Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in broadening the ideological spectrum and social base of the movement. His emphasis on non-violence, self-reliance, and inclusivity attracted diverse sections of society, including the marginalized and oppressed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ideological diversity and social inclusiveness of the national movement in the 1920s laid a robust foundation for India's eventual independence. The convergence of various ideologies and the participation of a broad social spectrum created a unified front against colonial rule, setting the stage for the final phase of the freedom struggle.

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