DR RAM MANOHAR LOHIA NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY,

LUCKNOW

HISTORY II
“INC POST 1857: A LEGACY UNVEILED”

SUBMITTED TO SUBMITTED BY
DR. VANDANA SINGH Riya
PROFESSOR Semester 2
HISTORY B A L.L.B(Hons.)
RMLNLU Enroll no. 230101125

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 DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this project entitled: “INC post-1857- A Legacy Unveiled,” submitted by
me to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia National Law University, Lucknow, in partial fulfillment
requirement for the award of the degree of B.A.LL.B (Hons.), is a record of bonafide project
work carried out by me us under the guidance of Dr. Vandana Singh (History). I further declare
that I have not and will not submit this project work in whole or in part for the award of any
other degree or diploma from this institute or any other university.

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 Contents
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................................4

OBJECTIVES..................................................................................................................................5

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY....................................................................................................5

INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................5

THEORIES RELATED TO THE FOUNDATION OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS.6

SAFETY VALVE THEORY........................................................................................................6

CONSPIRACY THEORY............................................................................................................7

LIGHTNING CONDUCTOR THEORY.....................................................................................7

PHASES OF INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS..........................................................................8

FIRST PHASE~MODERATE PHASE (1885-1905)...................................................................8

SECOND PHASE~EXTREMIST PHASE (1905-20)-...............................................................9

THIRD PHASE OF INC~ 1920-1940.......................................................................................11

IMPORTANT SESSION OF INC.................................................................................................12

Role of INC in the Indian National Movement.............................................................................13

Conclusion.....................................................................................................................................14

References......................................................................................................................................15

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I want to thank those who helped me assemble this project. Firstly, I would like to thank my
professor, Dr. Vandana Singh, for giving me this golden opportunity to do this project on a topic
that is of great interest to me: INC POST 1857- A LEGACY UNVEILED and for helping me with
all my queries and difficulties regarding the project from the very beginning.

I would also like to thank all my friends and seniors who helped me complete this project within
the stipulated amount of time and provided sound advice and insights on how to do this project.

I acknowledge that despite my sincerest efforts, some discrepancies may have crept in, and I
hope and believe that I will be pardoned for the same.

Thank you,

RIYA

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ABSTRACT

The Indian National Congress (INC) emerged as a formidable force in the aftermath of the 1857 uprising,
marking the beginning of a transformative journey that has left an indelible imprint on Indian history.
This project endeavors to unravel the evolution of the Indian National Congress post-1857, tracing its
trajectory from a platform for political agitation to the vanguard of India's independence movement.
Delving into the Congress's pivotal role in articulating nationalist aspirations, the study examines its

strategies, leaders, and critical milestones in shaping India's destiny .

OBJECTIVES
1. Trace the evolution of the Indian National Congress from post-1857 inception to its
leading role in India's independence movement.

2. Analyze the methods used by the Indian National Congress in marking Independence.

3. Assess the lasting impact of the Indian National Congress on Indian democracy and
governance, drawing insights for contemporary politics.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
In this study, I Have Chosen the analytical descriptive method. My study includes secondary
resources and a Critical approach towards each aspect of the Indian National Congress's
Evolution and its Legacy.

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INTRODUCTION
By the latter part of the nineteenth century, the British Empire in India saw the emergence of a
significant political entity modeled on Western principles, known as the Indian National
Congress. This development marked an important step in India's quest for independence from
colonial domination, being the inaugural party of its kind within the broader British Empire. Its
establishment served as a beacon for nationalist leaders globally, notably evidenced by the
formation of comparable organizations, such as the African National Congress in South Africa,
by 1912.

The establishment of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885 marked a pivotal moment in
India's quest for independence and significantly influenced the nation's political trajectory.
Preceding its formation, various socio-political movements and groups paved the way for the
inception of the Indian National Congress.

From 1885 until 1947, many annual and special sessions of the INC were convened to deliberate
on the prevailing political landscape and formulate resolutions on critical matters. These sessions
of the INC served as forums for inclusive and collective decision-making, shaping the strategies
and direction of India's struggle for liberation.

This project aims to highlight the evolution of the Indian National Congress & How the
leadership and vision of key figures like Allan Octavian Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji, and others
shaped the early objectives and strategies of the INC. The growth & Expansion of INC.

My Project Highlights the primary goals and ideologies driving the founding members of the
INC and how these evolved in response to changing colonial policies and Indian socio-political
conditions.

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THEORIES RELATED TO THE FOUNDATION OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL
CONGRESS

1. SAFETY VALVE THEORY

Although numerous Indians had been considering the establishment of a pan-Indian organization
for nationalist political figures, it was A.O. Hume, a retired English Civil Servant, who was
instrumental in crystallizing the concept into a tangible entity. Hume actively involved himself
with influential Indian leaders and worked alongside them to orchestrate the inaugural session of
the Indian National Congress (INC) in Bombay in December 1885. Hume's primary objective in
founding and advocating for this association was to address the growing dissatisfaction among
educated Indians, functioning as a sort of "safety valve."

The theory posits that Hume founded the Congress expecting it to function as a "safety valve" for
the escalating discontent among Indians. Extremist leaders, including Lala Lajpat Rai, endorsed
this notion.

2. CONSPIRACY THEORY
Rajani Palme Dutt is often attributed with pioneering the conspiracy theory concept, which
stemmed from the notion of a 'safety valve.' According to Dutt's perspective, the Indian National
Congress (INC) was founded due to a clandestine plot to suppress a burgeoning popular uprising
in India. Furthermore, Dutt posited that the bourgeois or middle-class leaders of India were
complicit in this alleged scheme. Dutt's interpretation suggests that the INC's genesis was not a
product of genuine grassroots movements for independence but a calculated maneuver
orchestrated by privileged elites to maintain control and thwart more radical expressions of
dissent.

3. LIGHTNING CONDUCTOR THEORY

Gopal Krishna Gokhale introduced the concept of the "lightning conductor theory," which
proposed that the Indian National Congress (INC) served as a conductor for politically aware
Indians to articulate their aspirations for a unified national entity that would advocate for their
political and economic rights. Contemporary Indian historians argue that the early leaders of the

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Congress strategically employed Allan Octavian Hume as a "lightning conductor" to catalyze and
channel nationalist sentiments, thereby uniting disparate forces under a common platform.
Despite the perception of the Congress as a "safety valve" by some, these historians contend that
Hume's role was instrumental in providing a focal point for Indian nationalism to coalesce and
gain momentum. Thus, while the Congress may have initially appeared as a means for the
colonial authorities to manage dissent, it ultimately evolved into a potent vehicle for expressing
Indian political aspirations and demands.

PHASES OF INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS

 FIRST PHASE~MODERATE PHASE (1885-1905)

The period from 1885 to 1905 can be called the ‘Moderate phase.’ The early Nationalists, also
known as the moderates, were a group of political leaders in India active between 1885 and
1905. They were the people who believed in British justice and were loyal to them. They
believed in liberalism and moderate politics.

 Prominent leaders of Moderates

Dadabhai Naoroji, Pherozeshah Mehta, D.E. Wacha, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Sir
Surendranath Banerjee, etc.
 Methods of Moderates
The approach used by moderates was based on 3P- Prayers, Petitions, and Protest. They
probably used Constitutional Methods, the first request to the Britishers through prayers
and then filed petitions and later fulfilled their demand through protest.
This is a very slow but orderly method used by moderates to put their demands on the
Britishers.
 Contribution of the moderates
1. Moderates Behaved as an economic critique against British imperialism.
Dadabhai Naoroji, D.E Wacha & R.C Dutt were the first to put forward the
‘Drain Wealth Theory & Homes charges.’

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 2. They opposed the Britishers in transforming India into a colonial economy &
creating public opinion against British rule. They Demanded an independent
economy through Indian enterprises.
3. Their demands included reducing land revenue, abolishing the salt tax,
improving working conditions, reducing military expenditure, and promoting
modern industry in India.
4. Moderates demanded that India be ruled in the interest of the Indian people,
while for Britain, imperial interests were paramount. For this, British needed to
enlarge the basis for their support in India. They did this by satisfying the
aspirations of those Indians who were ready to confine their demands within a
narrow constitutional framework. This would also ensure British autocracy. It
was with this objective the Act of 1892 was passed.
5. Indian Council Act 1892 It was an amending act, and the basic constitutional
provisions remained the same as the 1861 Act. Mainly, two types of changes
were introduced.

a. Changes in the composition of Legislative bodies

b. Enlargement of functions.
6. Expansion of Central and Provincial LCs by addition of elected members by
having 50% members elected not by the general public but by local bodies,
chambers of commerce, universities, etc.
7. The budget should be referred to the legislature, which should have the right to
discuss it, amend it, and vote on it. They also wanted the right to appeal directly
to the parliament against the Government of India or indirect elections.

8. They demanded the Indianisation of Government services and separation of

judicial from executive function.
9. They demanded better treatment of Indian laborers against oppression & racial
discrimination in other British colonies.
10. They demanded the protection of civil rights, including the Freedom of speech
and expression and the freedom to form associations.

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 11. The Repealing the Arms Act of 1878 and Increased spending on the education
of Indians.

 SECOND PHASE~EXTREMIST PHASE (1905-20)-

The extremists disagreed with the moderates' approach of seeking compromises and petitioning
the government. Instead, they advocated for self-reliance, aiming for complete independence,
known as 'Swaraj.’ They proposed confronting British rule in India through mass movements,
such as boycotts, civil disobedience, and promoting national education. The Extremists were
convinced that people needed to be ready to endure repression while fighting against foreign
domination. This phase is also known as “Militant Nationalism.’’ As they have extreme political
opinions. They have the potential to sacrifice, boycott, & passive resistance. By 1907-08, the
Extremists gained strength within Congress. The British Government started treating all leaders
with suspicion, whether moderates or extremists. This created an atmosphere conducive to unity
among them as both came under attack from the same quarters”.

Various factors drove the surge of extremism within the Indian National Congress:

1. Political radicalism: Extremists, inspired by nationalist ideologies like 'Swadharma' and

'Swaraj,' gained momentum, supported by socio-religious leaders such as Ramakrishna
Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda.
2. Discontent with Moderate methods: Frustration with the moderate' passive approach to
prayers and petitions led nationalists to advocate for more direct action.
3. Impact of famines: Devastating famines and British mishandling, notably in 1896-1901,
disillusioned even moderate leaders and fueled public resentment.
4. Lord Curzon's policies: Controversial policies like the Indian Official Secrets Act and the
Partition of Bengal aggravated nationalist sentiments.
5. International influence: Events abroad, including Italy's defeat by Abyssinia and Japan's
victory over Russia, as well as nationalist movements in other countries, inspired Indians
to resist imperialism.

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 6. Partition of Bengal: The 1905 Partition further ignited extremism and spurred
revolutionary activities in India.

Prominent extremist leaders within the Indian National Congress included

 Bal Gangadhar Tilak, nicknamed "Lokamanya," who famously proclaimed, "Swaraj is

my birthright, and I will have it." Tilak vigorously opposed any interference by foreign
governments in the lives of Indian citizens. He founded the Poona Home Rule League in
1916 and wielded significant influence through his newspapers, Mahratta and Kesari.
 Lala Lajpat Rai, known as the 'Lion of Punjab,' played a crucial role in the Swadeshi
Movement and famously opposed the Simon Commission with the slogan 'Go back,
Simon.' He criticized Congress for what he perceived as a lack of resolve and
commitment to nationalist goals.
 Bipan Chandra Pal, who shifted from moderation to extremism in 1902, used his
eloquent speeches and writings to propagate nationalist ideals across India.
 Aurobindo Ghosh emphasized the importance of political freedom, stating that it is the
lifeblood of a nation. Ghosh's influential work 'New Lamps for Old' was published
between 1893 and 1894 in the Indu Prakash.
 Other notable extremist leaders included Rajnarayan Bose, Ashwin Kumar Dutt, and
V.O. Chidambaram Pillai.

Methods of Extremist

These individuals believed that British rule in India was ill-motivated and aimed at exploiting the
nation's resources. They expressed their dissent through open agitation and pressure tactics,
rejecting the use of petitions alone. While they opposed the violent methods employed by
revolutionary groups, they recognized the provocation that led to them. They regarded 'Swaraj' as

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a birthright not dependent on British assurances and called for immediate action towards self-
rule. They played an active role in rousing emotional outrage against British rule, preparing the
masses for the struggle to gain 'Swaraj,' and instilling a sense of self-respect, self-reliance, and
pride in their ancient heritage. Their nationalist ideology was assertive and radical, focusing on
India's ancient culture and heritage. They advocated for the boycott of foreign goods, the
'Swadeshi' movement, non-cooperation with the bureaucracy, and passive resistance. While
disapproving of violence, they understood the revolutionary response to British repression.

 THIRD PHASE OF INC~ 1920-1940

The third phase of the Indian National Congress can broadly be categorized as the period from
the late 1920s to the mid-1940s, characterized by heightened mast mobilization, increased
assertiveness in demands for independence, and the emergence of Mahatma Gandhi as the
paramount leader of Congress and the Indian freedom struggle. This means that Congress is
transitioning. From moderate politics to more radical and confrontational approaches. In its quits
for self-rule.

Under Gandhi's leadership, INC launched the known corporation movement in 1920, followed
by the civil disobedience movement in 1930. These movements aimed to mobilize the masses in
nonviolent resistance against the British colonial rule. By adopting boycotts, protests, and non-
payments of Taxes methods.

Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a paramount leader and guiding soul of the Indian National
Congress during this phase. Advocating his principle of nonviolent civil disobedience and
Swaraj. His philosophy of Ahimsa and Satyagraha became central to the Congress approach to
resistance and political activism.

In 1942, Congress launched the Quit India movement, demanding an immediate end to British
rule and engaging in a nationwide civil disobedience campaign.

Overall, the third phase of the Indian National Congress was marked by Intense mass
mobilization, the consolidation of Gandhi’s leadership, and the growing momentum toward

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India’s eventual independence; despite facing formidable challenges, the Congress emerged as
the principal force driving the nationalist movement and shaping the course of Indian history.

IMPORTANT SESSION OF INC

The Indian National Congress (INC) has had many significant sessions throughout history,
marking essential milestones in India's struggle for independence. Below are the most important
sessions:

1. 1885 Bombay Session: Laid the foundation for organized political activism against
British colonial rule and demanded more excellent representation for Indians in civil
services and legislative councils.
2. 1907 Surat session: the session witnessed a split within the Congress between the
moderate and extremist factions led by Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Bal Gangadhar Tilak,
respectively.
3. 1929 Lahore Session: Adopted "Purna Swaraj," or complete independence, as the
Congress's goal and laid the groundwork for the Civil Disobedience Movement.
4. 1930 Karachi Session: Passed a resolution for Civil Disobedience, leading to the
Gandhi-Irwin Pact and marking a crucial moment in the struggle against British rule.
5. 1942 Bombay Session (Quit India Movement): Launched the Quit India Movement,
demanding an end to British rule in India and demonstrating Indian resolve for
independence.
6. 1946 Meerut Session: Reiterated Congress's commitment to Hindu-Muslim unity and
addressed challenges of communalism and the Congress's efforts to maintain national
unity.

These sessions of the Indian National Congress represent pivotal moments in India's struggle for
independence and demonstrate the Congress's evolving strategies, leadership, and objectives in
the quest for self-rule and national unity.

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Role of INC in the Indian National Movement

The Indian National Congress played an important role in the Indian national movement for
independence from British colonial rule. Its contribution was multifaceted and evolved from its
inception in the late 19th century to India's eventual independence in 1947. The Indian National
Congress provided a platform for Indians to voice their causes and aspirations for self-rule and
independence. It symbolized Indian nationalism and unity, transcending regional, linguistic, and
cultural differences. The Congress mobilized millions of Indians from diverse backgrounds to
participate in the struggle for independence through various means, such as protest strikes,
boycotts, and civil disobedience campaigns. It galvanized public opinion against British rule and
fostered a sense of collective resistance. The Indian National Congress produced visionary
leaders who guided the nationalist movement with their ideas, strategies, and sacrifices.
Optimistic figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, and
Subhas Chandra Bose emerged as the key architects of India's freedom struggle, providing
morale and strategic direction to the movement. The Congress led several mass movements for
civil disobedience and non-cooperation against British authorities, challenging their legitimacy
and authority. Campaigns such as Salt Satyagraha, Quit India Movement, and Non-Cooperation
Movement exemplify the Congress' commitment to nonviolent resistance and defense of unjust
laws. The Indian National Congress leveraged international support and sympathy for India by
engaging with global leaders, organizations, and forums to highlight British colonial oppression
and seek diplomatic intervention. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhash Chandra Bose
played a crucial role in garnering international solidarity for India's independence struggle. The
Congress engaged in various negotiations and agreements with the British government to press
for constitutional reforms and Indian representation in governance. Agreements such as the
Gandhi-Irwin Pact and the Cabinet Mission Plan reflected attempts to find a political solution to
India's struggle for self-rule. Beyond the fight for political independence, the Indian National
Congress promoted nation-building efforts emphasizing social reforms, education, and economic

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development. It championed causes such as women's rights, religious harmony, and the
eradication of social evils like untouchability and bonded labor. As India approached
independence, the Congress played a central role in the process of partition, the drafting of the
Indian constitution, and the establishment of democratic institutions. It transitioned from a
liberation movement to a governing party, leading India into the post-colonial era. In conclusion,
we can say that the Indian National Congress served as the vanguard of India's freedom struggle,
embodying the aspirations of millions of Indian people in their quest for determination, dignity,
and sovereignty.

Conclusion

The struggle for India's independence from British colonial rule was a long and arduous journey
that was marked by a range of challenges, setbacks, and triumphs. At the heart of this struggle
was the Indian National Congress (INC), a political party that played a crucial role in shaping the
course of India's history. From the time of its inception, the Congress provided a unifying
platform for Indians to voice their self-rule and national sovereignty aspirations. It became a
beacon of hope for millions of people across the country, who rallied under its banner to
challenge the British colonial authorities and demand their rights. The INC mobilized millions of
people from diverse backgrounds, employing various nonviolent means such as protests,
boycotts, and civil disobedience campaigns to challenge British authority and galvanize public
opinion against colonial oppression. The party's leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal
Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, emerged as the driving force behind the Indian
independence movement, guiding the movement with their moral integrity and strategic acumen.
They led from the front and tirelessly worked towards the goal of achieving India's freedom from
colonial rule. The Indian National Congress also effectively leveraged international support,
engaging with global leaders and organizations to highlight India's plight and seek diplomatic
intervention. Through their efforts, the Congress was able to secure the support of many
countries and people around the world, who sympathized with India's struggle for freedom. This
international support was instrumental in building pressure on the British colonial authorities and
bringing about India's eventual independence. Beyond political independence, the Congress
championed social reforms and nation-building efforts, laying the groundwork for India's

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transition into a sovereign, democratic nation. The party's leaders recognized that independence
was just the beginning of a long journey towards building a free and prosperous nation. They set
out to create a more just and equitable society, addressing issues such as poverty, education,
healthcare, and social inequality. Their vision and leadership laid the foundation for India's
emergence as a modern, democratic nation. As India approached independence, the INC's
leadership was instrumental in negotiating with the British government, drafting the constitution,
and establishing democratic institutions. They worked tirelessly to ensure that India's transition
to independence was peaceful and orderly, setting a precedent for other countries seeking to
achieve independence through nonviolent means.

References
1. JOURNAL ARTICLE- “The Development of the Indian National Congress as a Mass
Organization” By Gopal Krishna in The Journal of Asian Studies Vol. 25, No. 3 (May,
1966), pp. 413-430 (18 pages). https://www.jstor.org/stable/2051999
2. Article-Indian National Congress – A political Changer by Dr MD Imran Kazmi in
ORIGINAL RESEARCH PAPER, V 9, https://www.worldwidejournals.com/global-
journal-for-research-analysis-GJRA/recent_issues_pdf/2020/October/indian-national-
congress-a-political-changer_October_2020_7416120622_2109445.pdf
3. INDIA: A SHORT HISTORY OF INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS BY M.V. RAMANA
RAO. S. CHAND
HTTPS://JOURNALS.SAGEPUB.COM/DOI/10.1177/097492846902500126
4. Modern history by Bipin Chandra.

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