Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922), launched by Mahatma Gandhi, was a watershed moment in the Indian nationalist struggle. While it mobilized millions and instilled a sense of national consciousness, its abrupt withdrawal following the Chauri Chaura incident in February 1922 led to a sense of despair and disillusionment among many nationalists. This perceived ‘failure’ and the subsequent political vacuum created conditions ripe for the growth of revolutionary and militant nationalist ideologies, particularly amongst the younger generation who felt alienated by the Gandhian emphasis on non-violence. This answer will explore the extent to which the NCM’s shortcomings directly contributed to the rise of revolutionary activities in India.
The ‘Virtual Failure’ of the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Resulting Disillusionment
The NCM, despite its initial success, faced several limitations. Firstly, it failed to trigger a widespread agrarian revolt, despite attempts to mobilize peasants. Secondly, the movement’s economic impact was uneven, with some industries benefiting from the boycott of foreign goods while others suffered. Thirdly, internal divisions within the Congress, particularly regarding the pace and methods of the movement, weakened its unity. The Chauri Chaura incident, where a police station was burnt down and several policemen killed, provided Gandhi with the pretext to call off the movement, leaving many activists feeling betrayed and demoralized.
The suspension of the NCM created a sense of gloom and frustration. Many nationalists, particularly those who had actively participated in the movement and faced imprisonment or hardship, felt that Gandhi had surrendered too easily. This disillusionment was particularly acute among the younger generation, who were eager for more radical action. The failure of the NCM to achieve its objectives – Swaraj – led to a questioning of the efficacy of non-violent methods and a search for alternative strategies.
The Rise of Revolutionary Activities
The period following the NCM witnessed a surge in revolutionary activities, primarily driven by disillusioned nationalists. These activities were characterized by a shift towards more violent and direct action against the British colonial administration.
Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) & Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA)
The most prominent example is the formation of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) in 1924, later renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in 1928. Founded by revolutionaries like Ram Prasad Bismil, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Bhagat Singh, the HSRA aimed to overthrow British rule through armed struggle and establish a socialist republic in India. The Kakori train robbery (1925) and the assassination of J.P. Saunders (1928) – avenging the death of Lala Lajpat Rai – were key actions undertaken by the HSRA. These acts were directly influenced by the perceived failure of the NCM to deliver on its promises.
Other Revolutionary Groups
- Bengal Revolutionary Groups: Groups like the Anushilan Samiti and Jugantar continued their activities, focusing on assassinations and sabotage. The disillusionment with the NCM reinvigorated these groups.
- Punjab Revolutionary Groups: Inspired by Bhagat Singh and the HSRA, revolutionary groups in Punjab engaged in acts of violence and propaganda.
- United Provinces Revolutionary Groups: The United Provinces became a hotbed of revolutionary activity, with groups like the HSRA actively recruiting members and carrying out attacks.
Impact of Global Events
The rise of revolutionary activities was also influenced by global events. The success of the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia (1917) provided inspiration to Indian revolutionaries, who saw in socialism a viable alternative to both colonialism and capitalism. The HSRA, in particular, embraced socialist ideology and sought to emulate the Russian model.
Connecting the Dots: NCM Failure and Revolutionary Upsurge
The link between the NCM’s ‘failure’ and the rise of revolutionary activities is undeniable. The NCM created a political consciousness and a desire for independence, but its abrupt end left many nationalists feeling frustrated and disillusioned. This created a vacuum that was filled by revolutionary ideologies and movements. The revolutionaries offered a more radical and immediate path to independence, appealing to those who had lost faith in non-violent methods. The HSRA, for example, explicitly criticized Gandhi’s leadership and advocated for armed struggle as the only way to achieve Swaraj.
However, it’s important to note that the revolutionary movement was not solely a product of the NCM’s failure. Pre-existing factors, such as economic hardship, social injustice, and the repressive nature of British rule, also played a significant role. Furthermore, the revolutionary movement remained relatively small and lacked widespread support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while not the sole cause, the virtual failure of the Non-Cooperation Movement and the ensuing gloom undeniably created conditions conducive to the growth of revolutionary activities in India. The disillusionment with Gandhian non-violence, coupled with the influence of socialist ideology and global events, led to a surge in militant nationalism. The formation and activities of groups like the HSRA stand as a testament to this connection. However, it is crucial to remember that revolutionary movements were a complex phenomenon with multiple contributing factors, and their impact on the overall nationalist struggle should be viewed in a broader historical context.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.