The Socialist Phase of the Indian Freedom Struggle, spanning the years 1928 to 1947, marks a crucial chapter in the nation’s history, characterized by the emergence of socialist ideologies and movements that sought to address socioeconomic disparities and envision a more equitable and just society. This period unfolded against the backdrop of the larger struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Influenced by global socialist ideals, Indian leaders and activists began advocating for a radical transformation of the existing socio-economic order, with a focus on the rights and welfare of the common masses. The trajectory of the socialist phase is intricately woven into the fabric of the broader freedom movement, reflecting the multifaceted nature of India’s quest for independence during this transformative era. In this context, examining the key events, ideologies, and personalities that shaped the socialist phase becomes essential for understanding the nuanced dynamics that unfolded in the prelude to India’s eventual liberation.
- Indeed, the policies and approaches of early nationalists, including the moderates, extremists, and Gandhiji, did not fully address the needs and aspirations of the peasants and workers. This created a void and disillusionment among the poor and working class, pushing them to explore alternative ideologies, such as socialism.
- The moderates, in their quest to maintain unity within the Indian nationalist movement, deliberately avoided addressing class issues. This allowed them to avoid conflicts between different sections of Indian society, such as landlords and capitalists, whose interests were often at odds with the concerns of peasants and workers.
- The extremists, on the other hand, believed that achieving Swaraj or self-rule would be a solution to all the problems. Their focus was primarily on gaining independence from British rule, and they did not prioritize addressing the specific issues faced by the poor and working class.
- Gandhiji, with his emphasis on the change of heart and the concept of trusteeship, believed that landlords and capitalists would voluntarily change their exploitative ways. However, these ideas did not resonate with the poor and working class, who continued to experience exploitation and injustice. The rapid growth of modern industries in India also contributed to the rise of socialist ideas, as workers in factories faced similar forms of exploitation as their counterparts in Europe.
- As a result, the Indian workers gradually developed faith in the efficacy of socialism as a means to address their grievances and bring about socio-economic justice. The socialist ideology provided an alternative framework that focused on the rights and welfare of the working class, appealing to those who felt neglected by the mainstream nationalist movements.
Overall, the failure of early nationalists to adequately address the concerns of the peasants and workers, combined with the exploitative conditions faced by the working class, contributed to the rise of socialism as an alternative ideology within the Indian freedom struggle.
- The growth of peasant organizations and trade unions, as well as their increased participation in the anti-British struggle, created a fertile ground for socialist ideas to gain popularity.
- The success of the Russian Revolution in 1917 had a profound impact worldwide, including in India. The establishment of a socialist state for the first time in history demonstrated the practicality of socialist principles and inspired socialists around the world, including in India.
- The Great Depression of 1929-1939 further contributed to the rise of socialism in India. While the capitalist world was struggling with economic crisis and unemployment, the Soviet Union, following socialist principles, showed significant economic growth. This contrast influenced Indian leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru to view socialism as a viable solution to India’s and the world’s problems.
- Additionally, the failure of Gandhian movements, such as the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement, to achieve their stated objectives also disillusioned the poor and working class. The sudden withdrawal of the Non-Cooperation Movement after the Chauri Chaura incident left many feeling that their efforts had been in vain, and the promised Swaraj (self-rule) was not materializing on the ground.
- All these factors, including nationalist awakening, the success of the Russian Revolution, the impact of the Great Depression, and the disappointment with the Gandhian movements, contributed to the growth and popularity of socialist ideas among the poor and working class in India. Socialism offered an alternative framework that aimed to address their grievances and create a more equitable society.
- The Congress Socialist Party was formed in 1934, as a group within the Indian National Congress to advocate for socialist principles and push the Congress towards socialism. The leaders mentioned, such as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, Jayprakash Narayan, Acharya Narendra Dev, and others, indeed played crucial roles in spreading socialist ideas within the national movement.
- The repeated failures and sudden suspension of movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement in March 1931, through the Gandhi-Irwin pact, led to disillusionment among the poor and working class. As a result, many of them began to believe that socialism held the solution to their suffering.
- Leaders like Nehru, Bose, Narayan, Dev, and others played significant roles in popularizing socialist ideals and advocating for social and economic reforms within the broader national movement. They recognized the need to address the concerns of the marginalized and working-class sections of society, and their efforts helped spread the influence of socialist thought and policies within the Indian National Congress.
- The formation of the Congress Socialist Party provided a platform for these leaders and like-minded individuals to advocate for socialist principles and push for the adoption of socialist policies within the Congress Party itself. This marked an important development within the national movement, as socialist ideas gained traction and became an integral part of the broader struggle for independence and social justice in India.
Characteristics and Significance of the Socialist Phase
The socialist phase within the national movement in India exhibited certain distinct characteristics:
- Progressive and Egalitarian: Socialists had a progressive outlook and were committed to promoting equality. They aimed to challenge and dismantle social and economic hierarchies prevalent in Indian society at that time.
- Democratic and Secular: Socialists upheld democratic principles and advocated for equal rights and representation for all sections of society. They emphasized secularism, recognizing the importance of religious harmony and the inclusion of diverse religious and ethnic communities in the national movement.
- Mass Movement and Multi-Class Participation: The socialist phase of the national movement was characterized by its mass appeal and involvement. It transcended class boundaries and drew support from various sections of society, including workers, peasants, intellectuals, and middle-class individuals.
- Radical Outlook: Socialists held a radical perspective and called for a comprehensive transformation of the socio-economic structure of India. They sought to address deep-rooted inequalities and sought to create a more just and equitable society.
- Pragmatic Approach to Nonviolence: While socialists respected nonviolence, they approached it pragmatically. They did not view nonviolence as a limitation on India’s struggle against British rule. Instead, they believed in using various means, including nonviolent methods, but were open to more forceful tactics when necessary.
- Emphasis on Social and Economic Freedom: Socialists emphasized that political freedom alone was insufficient. They argued that social and economic freedom were equally crucial and that achieving political independence would be meaningless without addressing the underlying socio-economic issues faced by the Indian population.
- Continuous Struggle: Socialists differed from Gandhi’s strategy of struggle-truce-struggle and pressure-compromise-pressure. They believed that the national movement should be a continuous and sustained struggle, not suspended or withdrawn until the objectives were achieved.
- These characteristics reflect the distinctive nature and objectives of the socialist phase within the larger national movement, highlighting their vision for a more egalitarian, democratic, and socially just India.
The socialist phase in the national movement held great significance for India’s struggle against British rule. Here are some key points highlighting its significance:
- Radicalization of the Movement: The rise of socialism brought a more radical and revolutionary perspective to the national movement. Socialist leaders advocated for more comprehensive changes and challenged the existing social and economic order. Their ideas and methods injected new energy and fervor into the movement.
- Commitment to Upliftment of the Masses: Socialist leaders were strongly committed to the upliftment and liberation of the masses. Their focus on addressing social and economic inequalities resonated with the marginalized sections of society. This broadened the social base of the national movement and brought in greater participation from the poor and working class.
- Continuous Struggle: Socialists rejected the notion of suspending or compromising the national movement. They believed in a continuous and unrelenting struggle until the objectives were achieved. This contributed to the all-out war-like character of the movement and infused a sense of resilience and determination.
- Expansion of the National Movement: The socialist phase led to the expansion of the national movement, extending its reach to native states as well. The Quit India movement launched in 1942, demonstrated the pan-India character of the movement, breaking the barriers of British India and encompassing the native states.
- Socio-economic Freedom alongside Political Independence: Socialists emphasized the importance of socio-economic freedom alongside political independence. The goal of “Poorna Swaraj” adopted by the Indian National Congress in 1929 included the aspiration for socio-economic transformation, aligning with socialist ideals.
- Redefining Nonviolence: The socialist phase brought a pragmatic approach to nonviolence within the national movement. While nonviolence remained a principle, it was no longer seen as a limitation. The influence of socialism led to a more nuanced understanding and practice of nonviolence, even in the face of violent incidents during the Quit India movement.
- Native Pressure on British Rule: The rise of socialism exerted immense pressure on British rule. The socialist philosophy and the mass participation it inspired created an environment of resistance and native empowerment. The intensified native pressure, combined with various other factors, ultimately led to the end of British rule in India in 1947.
Overall, the socialist phase played a significant role in shaping the national movement, broadening its objectives, mobilizing the masses, and contributing to the eventual achievement of independence. It brought radicalism, inclusivity, and an emphasis on social and economic transformation to the forefront of the struggle against British rule in India.
The Congress Socialist Party (CSP)
It was a socialist faction within the Indian National Congress (INC). It was established in 1934 by prominent socialist leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan and Acharya Narendra Dev. The formation of the CSP was driven by several reasons:
- Ideological Alignment: The leaders and members of the CSP were driven by socialist principles and believed in the transformative power of socialism. They aimed to advocate for socialist policies and ideals within the broader framework of the Indian National Congress.
- Dissatisfaction with Congress Leadership: The socialist leaders within the INC felt that the party’s mainstream leadership, including Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, were not adequately addressing the social and economic issues faced by the marginalized sections of society. They believed that Congress needed a stronger socialist voice to champion the cause of social justice and economic equality.
- Influence of International Events: The rise of socialism globally, including the success of the Russian Revolution and the global economic crisis, influenced the socialist leaders within the INC. They saw the need to incorporate socialist principles and policies into the Indian freedom struggle, aligning with the international socialist movement.
- Economic Inequalities and Peasant Unrest: The CSP leaders were deeply concerned about the prevailing economic disparities and agrarian issues in India. They believed that socialist principles could provide effective solutions to address these problems and uplift the masses, particularly the peasants and workers who were facing severe hardships.
- Commitment to Mass Mobilization: The CSP aimed to mobilize the masses, especially workers, peasants, and the marginalized, in the national movement. They believed that socialist principles could resonate with the aspirations of these sections of society and provide a stronger basis for mass mobilization and activism.
- The formation of the Congress Socialist Party provided a platform for socialist leaders within the Indian National Congress to consolidate their efforts, advocate for socialist policies, and influence the direction of the broader national movement. It served as a significant force in pushing for social justice, economic equality, and socialist ideals within the framework of the Indian freedom struggle.
Beliefs and Ideology of the CSP
The Congress Socialist Party (CSP) had a multifaceted ideology that combined various strands of thought. The beliefs and ideology of the CSP can be summarized as follows:
- Marxist Ideas: The CSP drew inspiration from Marxist ideas, particularly in terms of analyzing class struggle, economic inequalities, and the need for social transformation. They recognized the exploitative nature of capitalism and sought its abolition.
- Gandhism: While embracing Marxist ideas, the CSP also acknowledged the influence of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolence, Satyagraha (truth-force), and self-reliance. They believed in the power of nonviolent mass movements and peaceful methods to bring about social change.
- Liberal and Social Democracy: The CSP acknowledged the principles of liberal and social democracy prevalent in the Western world. They aimed to incorporate these democratic values within the Indian context, advocating for political freedoms, social justice, and economic equality.
- Allegiance to Indian National Congress (INC): The CSP maintained its allegiance to the Indian National Congress. They believed in working within the framework of Congress to promote their socialist ideals and influence the party’s policies.
- Nationalism and Independence: Like the broader Indian freedom movement, the CSP held the goal of Indian nationalism and independence as a central objective. They sought to achieve a sovereign, independent India free from British colonial rule.
- Coalition with the Middle Class: The CSP recognized the importance of building alliances with the bourgeoisie or middle-class sections of society. They aimed to create a broad base of support by uniting workers, peasants, and the middle class under the banner of the Congress.
- Socio-Economic Measures: The CSP advocated for radical socio-economic measures to uplift distressed sections of society. This included the abolition of capitalism, the zamindari system (feudal landlordism), and princely states. They sought to incorporate these measures into the Congress’ work program to address social and economic inequalities.
Overall, the CSP’s ideology was a blend of Marxist principles, Gandhian values, liberal and social democracy, and nationalism. They aimed to bring about a socialist transformation within the Indian National Congress, incorporating socio-economic measures and broadening the base of support to achieve independence and uplift the marginalized sections of society.
How were they different from Communists?
| Congress Socialist | Communists |
| Believed in Marxist Ideas, Gandhism, Liberal and Social democracy of the West. | Believed only in Marxist Ideas |
| Allegiance to Indian National Congress | Allegiance to the communist International |
| Goal – Nationalism and Independence. | Goal – International Communist Society |
| Worked with both workers and middle-class | Worked only with Workers. |
During the early 1930s, several prominent figures emerged as early socialists within the Indian National Congress and other regions. Some of these early socialists were:
- Jaya Prakash Narayan: Narayan was a key figure in the socialist movement. He played a crucial role in the formation of the Congress Socialist Party and later became one of the prominent leaders of the socialist movement in India.
- Achyut Patwardhan: Patwardhan was a socialist leader and a close associate of Jaya Prakash Narayan. He actively participated in the socialist movement and worked towards the implementation of socialist principles in the Indian National Congress.
- M.R. Masani: Masani was a socialist leader and writer. He contributed significantly to the socialist discourse in India and worked towards promoting socialist ideals within the Indian National Congress.
- N.G. Gore: Gore was an early socialist who advocated for the incorporation of socialist principles into the Indian National Congress. He played a significant role in the formation of the Congress Socialist Party.
- Ashok Mehta: Mehta was a socialist leader and writer who actively participated in the socialist movement. He worked towards promoting socialist principles and ideals within the Indian National Congress.
- S.M. Joshi: Joshi was a socialist leader who played a prominent role in the socialist movement in Maharashtra. He worked towards the upliftment of the working class and advocated for socialist policies.
- M.L. Dantwala: Dantwala was a socialist leader who focused on agrarian issues and worked towards the welfare of farmers. He played an important role in the early socialist movement in India.
- Yusuf Meherally: Meherally was a socialist leader and activist who founded the Bombay Provincial Youth League. He played a significant role in organizing demonstrations against the Simon Commission and participated in the civil disobedience movement.
- Ram Manohar Lohia: Lohia was a prominent socialist leader, thinker, and activist. He published the journal named “Congress Socialist” and played a crucial role in shaping socialist discourse within the Indian National Congress.
- These early socialists played a vital role in shaping the socialist movement in India, contributing to the formation of the Congress Socialist Party and advocating for socialist principles within the broader framework of the national movement.
- The All India Congress Socialist Party (CSP) was formed in October 1934 in Bombay (now Mumbai). However, the first All India Congress Socialists’ conference, where the idea of forming the party was discussed, took place in Patna in May 1934. The conference was convened by Jaya Prakash Narayan and presided over by Acharya Narendra Dev.
- The objectives of the Congress Socialist Party were twofold: independence from British rule and the establishment of a socialist society in India. The CSP aimed to work towards both these goals simultaneously.
- To achieve independence, the Congress socialists collaborated with anti-imperialist and non-socialist forces within the Indian National Congress. They believed in developing the Congress into a true anti-imperialist body. Jaya Prakash Narayan emphasized the importance of not antagonizing genuinely nationalist elements within the Congress and cautioned against actions that could drive them to align with the compromise-seeking right wing.
- While working for independence, the ultimate objective of the Congress socialists remained the establishment of a socialist society in India. They aimed to secure the acceptance of their socialist program by the Indian National Congress.
- The formation of the All India Congress Socialist Party provided a platform for socialist leaders within the Congress to advocate for socialist ideals, push for social and economic reforms, and work towards achieving both political independence and socio-economic transformation in India.
The work program of the Congress Socialist Party (CSP)
The work program of the Congress Socialist Party (CSP) encompassed a range of policies and measures aimed at the creation of a socialist society in India. Some of the key elements of their work program included:
- Transfer of Power to the Masses: The CSP advocated for the transfer of power from the ruling elites to the masses, ensuring a democratic system that upholds the principles of equality and social justice.
- Planned Economy: The CSP emphasized the need for a planned and controlled economy, where the state takes an active role in regulating and directing economic activities for the benefit of the people.
- Socialization of Key Industries: The CSP called for the socialization or state ownership of key industries such as railways, steel, cotton, jute, and others. This would ensure that these industries serve the broader interests of society rather than being controlled by private individuals or corporations.
- State Monopoly of Foreign Trade: The CSP proposed the establishment of a state monopoly on foreign trade to ensure that it is conducted in the best interests of the country and its people.
- Cooperative Societies: The CSP advocated for the organization of cooperative societies for production, distribution, and financing in the unorganized sector. This would provide support and empowerment to workers in sectors that often lacked formal organization and protection.
- Abolition of Titles and Redistribution of Land: The CSP called for the abolition of titles and privileges held by princes, landlords, and other exploiters. They also advocated for the redistribution of land among peasants to address the issue of land inequalities and empower agricultural workers.
- Cooperative and Collective Farming: The CSP encouraged and supported cooperative and collective farming, which would be organized and controlled by the state. This approach aimed to improve agricultural productivity and ensure equitable distribution of resources among farmers.
- Debt Liquidation and Right to Work: The CSP proposed the liquidation of debts owed by peasants and workers, alleviating their economic burden. They also emphasized the recognition of the right to work or maintenance by the state, ensuring that everyone has access to employment and a decent livelihood.
- Equitable Distribution and Franchise: The CSP advocated for equitable distribution of goods and resources, ensuring that the benefits of development reach all sections of society. They also supported adult franchises on a functional basis, enabling broader participation in the democratic process.
- Non-discrimination and Public Debt: The CSP emphasized non-discrimination based on religion, caste, or community by the state. They also rejected the acknowledgment of the so-called public debt of India, questioning the legitimacy of financial obligations imposed by colonial powers.
- These policy positions reflected the CSP’s commitment to socialist principles and their vision for a more equitable and just society in India.
The Congress Socialist Party (CSP) had both negative and positive impacts on national politics during its existence. Here are some of the key reactions and impacts:
Negative Reactions
- Opposition from Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi, while acknowledging the socialists’ concerns, rejected some of their ideas, such as the abolition of property, class war, zamindari abolition, capitalism abolition, and princely states abolition. He believed that leaders should act as trustees of workers, peasants, and subjects rather than pursuing radical measures.
- Differences between Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose: Although Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose were sympathetic to socialist ideas, they did not join the Congress Socialist Party. They held their socialist views and had their political paths.
Positive Reactions
- Representation in Congress Working Committee: Jawaharlal Nehru, recognizing the significance of the socialist movement, appointed prominent CSP leaders like Acharya Narendra Dev, Jayaprakash Narayan, and Achyut Patwardhan to the Congress Working Committee. This ensured their participation in shaping Congress policies and decisions.
- Agrarian Program at Faizpur Session: In the 1936 Faizpur session under the leadership of Nehru, the Indian National Congress approved an agrarian program that aligned with socialist principles. It called for the reduction of land revenue, abolition of feudal levies and dues, promotion of cooperative farming, establishment of peasant unions, and ensuring living wages for agricultural laborers.
- Focus on Workers’ Interests: In 1936, the Indian National Congress instructed Congress ministries in the provinces to work to safeguard and promote the interests of workers. This demonstrated the influence of the socialist movement, including the CSP, in shaping Congress policies.
- Democratic Movement against Princely States: The CSP pushed the Indian National Congress to join the democratic movement against princely state rulers, advocating for civil rights and responsible government. This contributed to the broader struggle for democratic principles and people’s participation in governance.
- The Congress Socialist Party dissolved in 1948, and its formal existence came to an end.
However, its impacts on national politics can be seen in the emphasis on social and economic issues within the Indian National Congress and the promotion of socialist ideals in shaping policies related to workers, peasants, and agrarian reforms.
FAQs
1. Congress Socialist Party ka gathan kya hai? (What is the formation of the Congress Socialist Party?)
Ans. The Congress Socialist Party (CSP) was a political party in India that emerged as a socialist faction within the Indian National Congress in the pre-independence era. It aimed to combine socialist principles with the struggle for India’s independence.
2. Bihar Congress Socialist Party ka gathan kab hua? (When was the Bihar Congress Socialist Party formed?)
Ans. The Bihar Congress Socialist Party was formed on May 25, 1934. It was part of the broader Congress Socialist movement that sought to push for social and economic justice within the Indian freedom struggle.
3. Congress Socialist Party ke sansthapak adhyaksh kaun hai? (Who was the founding president of the Congress Socialist Party?)
Ans. The founding president of the Congress Socialist Party was Acharya Narendra Dev. He played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s ideology and objectives.
4. Congress Socialist Party ki sthapna kisne ki thi? (Who founded the Congress Socialist Party?)
Ans. The Congress Socialist Party was founded by prominent leaders within the Indian National Congress who were influenced by socialist ideas. Some of its key founders included Jayaprakash Narayan, Acharya Narendra Dev, and Basawon Singh (Sinha).
5. Who is the Congress Party’s social media head?
Ans. The person responsible for heading the social media operations of the Indian National Congress, the political party, may vary over time. It is not a fixed position, and different individuals may hold the role at different times to manage the party’s social media presence and communication.
6. Congress Socialist Party ke adhyaksh kaun hai? (Who is the president of the Congress Socialist Party?)
Ans. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the Congress Socialist Party was no longer a prominent political entity in India, and its leadership had changed over time. You may need to check the latest information for the current leadership, if any.
7. Congress Socialist Party ke sansthapak kaun hai? (Who are the founders of the Congress Socialist Party?)
Ans. The founders of the Congress Socialist Party included prominent leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan, Acharya Narendra Dev, Basawon Singh (Sinha), and others. They were instrumental in establishing the socialist wing within the Indian National Congress during the freedom struggle.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
