Indian National Congress: Foundation and Early Years Explained for UPSC SSC

Birth of the Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded on December 28, 1885, at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College in Bombay. Its formation was a significant event in the history of Indian nationalism. Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant, played a key role in its establishment. He aimed to provide a platform for educated Indians to voice their political aspirations and to act as a 'safety valve' for the growing discontent against British rule. The first session was attended by 72 delegates from various parts of India, including prominent figures like Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, and W.C. Bonnerjee, who presided over the session. The initial objectives were moderate, focusing on administrative reforms and greater Indian representation in legislative councils.

Early Leadership and Aims

The early leaders of the INC were largely moderates, often referred to as 'Early Nationalists' or 'Moderates'. They believed in constitutional agitation and petitioning the British government for reforms. Prominent moderate leaders included Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, Pherozeshah Mehta, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and M.G. Ranade. Their demands included Indianisation of civil services, separation of the judiciary from the executive, expansion of legislative councils, and reduction of military expenditure. They used methods like sending petitions, writing articles, and holding public meetings to articulate their grievances. They had faith in the British sense of justice and fair play, believing that if their demands were presented reasonably, the British would concede them. The moderates laid the groundwork for a more assertive nationalist movement.

Key Sessions and Resolutions

The initial sessions of the INC were crucial in shaping its agenda and establishing its presence. The first session in 1885, presided over by W.C. Bonnerjee, marked the formal beginning. The second session in Calcutta in 1886, presided over by Dadabhai Naoroji, saw the attendance increase to 436 delegates. This session was significant as it brought together representatives from different regions, fostering a sense of national unity. The third session in Madras in 1887, under the presidency of Badruddin Tyabji, was notable for being the first session presided over by a Muslim. These early sessions passed resolutions on various issues, including the need for representative institutions, economic exploitation by the British, and the Arms Act. They consistently advocated for greater Indian participation in governance and administration.

British Reaction and Criticism

Initially, the British government viewed the INC with some tolerance, especially due to A.O. Hume's involvement. However, as the INC's demands grew more vocal and its base expanded, the British attitude shifted to one of suspicion and hostility. Lord Dufferin, the Viceroy at the time of its formation, initially called it a 'microscopic minority' but later became critical. British officials began to discourage participation in Congress sessions. For instance, Lord Curzon famously stated in 1900 that 'the Congress is tottering to its fall, and one of my greatest ambitions while in India is to assist it to a peaceful demise.' This shift in British policy highlighted the growing challenge the INC posed to colonial rule, even in its moderate phase. The British also attempted to create divisions among Indians to weaken the Congress.

Important Keywords Explained

Allan Octavian Humeperson

A retired British Indian Civil Service officer who played a crucial role in the formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885. He is often considered the 'Father of the Indian National Congress'. His motive is debated, with some seeing him as a genuine sympathizer and others as using the Congress as a 'safety valve' to prevent a larger rebellion.

Moderatesconcept

The early phase of the Indian National Congress (1885-1905) was dominated by leaders known as Moderates. They believed in constitutional methods of agitation, petitions, and appeals to the British sense of justice. Key figures included Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Surendranath Banerjee. They sought reforms within the British framework.

Dadabhai Naorojiperson

Known as the 'Grand Old Man of India', he was a prominent Moderate leader and one of the founders of the INC. He was the first Indian to be elected to the British House of Commons. His 'Drain of Wealth' theory critically analyzed British economic exploitation of India. He presided over the INC three times: 1886, 1893, and 1906.

Additional Facts & Context

• The first session was originally planned for Pune but moved to Bombay due to a cholera outbreak.
• Lord Dufferin was the Viceroy of India when the INC was founded.
• The 'safety valve theory' suggests Hume formed INC to prevent mass uprising.
• The first woman President of INC was Annie Besant in 1917.
• The first Indian woman President of INC was Sarojini Naidu in 1925.