Birth of Indian National Congress | A.O. Hume Formation - First Session and President - Objectives - Key points regarding the birth of the Indian National Congress

Birth of Indian National Congress (INC):

The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded on December 28, 1885, during a session in Bombay (now Mumbai). Its establishment marked a significant development in India's political landscape as it became a prominent platform for the articulation of political demands and aspirations for self-governance.

Birth of Indian National Congress

Key points regarding the birth of the Indian National Congress:

1. Formation: 

The INC was formed with the aim of obtaining a greater share in government for educated Indians. Its founders included prominent leaders and activists of the time.

2. A.O. Hume: 

The idea of forming the INC was initiated by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant and ornithologist. He played a crucial role in organizing the first session of the INC.

3. First Session: 

The first session of the Indian National Congress took place from December 28 to December 31, 1885, at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College in Bombay. It was attended by 72 delegates from various parts of India.

Indian National Congress

4. President: 

Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, a prominent Calcutta-based barrister, was elected as the first president of the Indian National Congress.

5. Objectives: 

The early objectives of the INC were focused on constitutional reform, increased representation for Indians in government services, and the promotion of civil rights.

6. Moderate Phase: 

In its early years, the INC was characterized by a moderate and constitutional approach. Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Dinshaw Wacha, and Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee advocated for reforms within the existing framework of British rule.

7. Evolution: 

Over time, the INC evolved and played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence. It saw different phases, including the emergence of more assertive leaders and a shift towards more radical approaches to achieve self-rule.

8. Partition of Bengal: 

The INC played a significant role in opposing the partition of Bengal in 1905, a move perceived as an attempt by the British to divide and rule.

The formation of the Indian National Congress marked the beginning of organized political activity in India, and it eventually became the primary political party leading the country to independence in 1947. The INC has played a dominant role in India's political landscape and has produced several key leaders who became pivotal figures in the nation's history.