Recent headlines highlighted the Prime Minister of India’s tribute to the notable socialist, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, as the nation commemorated his death anniversary. Lohia’s contributions to the political landscape of India have a deep significance rooted in the struggle for independence and the development of Indian socialism that warrants a comprehensive insight.
The Life and Ideology of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia
Born on 23rd March, 1910 in Akbarpur, Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Lohia stood as a beacon in the movement towards Indian independence and socialist politics. His dedication to fighting injustice led to the creation of a uniquely Indian version of socialism. This set of political ideas arose as a response to the disparities present in the industrial capitalist economy.
Dr. Lohia identified five forms of inequalities— gender, colour, caste, colonial rule, and economic disparity. He believed that the fight against these divisions embodied the true essence of revolution. Later, he expanded his view to include two more revolutions— the struggle for civil liberties and non-violence. These seven revolutions, also known as Sapta Kranti, were, for him, the core of socialism.
Academic Journey and Early Activism
Lohia received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Calcutta in 1929 and pursued a doctorate from the University of Berlin, where he studied economics and politics. His active involvement in politics began in 1934 with the Congress Socialist Party (CSP), a left-wing group within the Indian National Congress.
He was known for his staunch opposition to Indian participation with Great Britain in World War II and was even arrested for anti-British remarks. When Mahatma Gandhi initiated the Quit India Movement in 1942, Lohia, along with other CSP leaders, offered their support from underground, leading to his subsequent imprisonment from 1944–46.
Post-Independence Contribution and Legacy
Post-independence, in 1948, Lohia, along with other CSP members, left Congress. He became a member of the Praja Socialist Party formed in 1952 and served as its general secretary briefly. Following internal conflicts, he resigned in 1955 and established a new Socialist Party, subsequently becoming its chairman and the editor of its journal, Mankind.
As the party leader, he demanded various socio-political reforms, including the abolition of the caste system and stronger protection of civil liberties. In 1963, Lohia was elected to the Lok Sabha, where his sharp criticism of government policies made him a distinct voice.
Among his numerous works, notable ones include ‘Wheel of History’, ‘Marx, Gandhi and Socialism’, ‘Guilty Men of India’s Partition’, etc. Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia’s life concluded on 12th October, 1967, but his influential contributions continue to resonate within the political contours of the nation.
Source: PIB