The Moderate Phase of the Indian National Congress (INC) spanned from 1885 to 1905. It was characterised by a focus on constitutional reform and dialogue with the British government. This period aimed to address grievances and facilitate discussions on national issues.
Key Characteristics
- Moderate Demands – The INC made moderate demands for constitutional reforms and economic relief.
- Legal Framework – Early leaders adhered to legal methods, using petitions and discussions.
- Political Training – Their critiques of government policies provided essential political education for the populace.
Prominent Leaders
Key figures in this phase included –
- Dadabhai Naoroji – Known for his critique of British economic policies.
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale – Advocated for political reforms and self-rule.
- Pherozeshah Mehta, D.E. Wacha, W.C. Bonnerjea, S.N. Banerjee – Contributed to the moderate agenda.
Methods of Advocacy
Moderates employed several methods to express their demands –
- Petition, Prayer, Protest – They believed in peaceful agitation.
- Public Opinion – They sought to create and organise public sentiment.
- Press and Platforms – The press was crucial for spreading their message.
Annual Sessions of INC
The INC held annual sessions to discuss government policies and pass resolutions.
- Duration – Sessions lasted only three days each year.
- Limitations – The INC lacked a mechanism for continuous engagement between sessions.
Relationship with the British Government
Moderate leaders maintained a strong belief in the British sense of justice.
- Delegations to Britain – They sent delegations to present Indian concerns.
- Establishment of British Committee – Formed in 1889 to further their agenda.
Major Demands of the Moderate Phase
The INC’s demands remained consistent throughout this period –
- Provincial Councils – Organisation and reform of local governance.
- Indian Civil Service Examination – Simultaneous examinations in India and England.
- Judicial Separation – Separation of the judiciary from the executive.
- Repeal of the Arms Act – Aimed at reducing state control over arms.
- Indian Army Representation – Appointment of Indians to commissioned ranks.
- Reduction of Military Expenditure – Advocated for lower military spending.
- Permanent Settlement – Extension to other regions in India.
- Freedom of Speech – Emphasised civil rights and expression.
Economic Demands
While political demands were moderate, economic demands were more radical.
- Anti-Imperialist Policies – Advocated against British economic exploitation.
- Drain Theory – Highlighted the economic drain from India to Britain.
- Protests Against Taxation – Criticised government policies affecting the poor.
Legislative Reforms
Moderates sought to expand legislative councils. – Indian Councils Act of 1892 – Resulted from their agitation but deemed unsatisfactory. – Indianisation of Administration – Campaign for more Indian representation in governance.
Civil Rights and Welfare Activities
Moderates strongly advocated for civil rights. – Freedom of the Press – Opposed restrictions on press freedom. – Primary Education – Promoted education for the masses. – Agricultural Banks – Suggested banks to assist farmers against moneylenders.
Evaluation of the Moderate Phase
The period saw limited success in achieving major reforms.
- Limited Government Response – Few demands were met by the British authorities.
- Criticism of Mass Support – The movement lacked widespread popular backing.
Achievements of the Moderate Phase
Despite challenges, the moderates made contributions –
- Political Awareness – Raised consciousness about British rule’s impact.
- Democratic Ideals – Popularised democratic principles among the populace.
- Economic Critique – Provided a comprehensive critique of British economic policies.
British Hostility Towards Congress
The British government viewed the INC with suspicion.
- Hostile Attitude – Increased hostility during Lord Curzon’s tenure.
- Counter Movements – Supported movements like the Aligarh Movement to undermine Congress.
Evolution of Congress Goals
As the movement progressed, goals began to shift.
- Demand for Swaraj – The call for self-rule emerged by 1905.
- Influence of Extremists – The rise of extremist leaders began to overshadow moderates.
Extremist Movement
The emergence of extremist leaders marked shift within the INC.
- Support from Youth – Extremists attracted younger political activists.
- Changing Dynamics – The influence of moderates waned as demands for immediate action grew.
Conclusion of the Moderate Phase
The Moderate Phase laid the groundwork for future nationalist movements.
- Foundation for Future Struggles – Established principles that would guide later movements.
- Inclusiveness – Attracted diverse groups and interests.
- Continued Advocacy – Set the stage for more radical demands in subsequent years.
Legacy of the Moderate Phase
The Moderate Phase remains an essential part of India’s freedom struggle.
- Political Training – Provided a platform for future leaders.
- Awareness of Rights – Fostered a sense of rights and entitlements among Indians.
- Critique of Imperialism – Established a strong economic critique that resonated with the masses.
