Monday, September 16, 2019
Establishment, purpose and fall of Swaraj Party
The Swaraj Party was a political party in India that emerged during the freedom struggle against British colonial rule. It was formed in 1923 by leaders who were formerly associated with the Indian National Congress. The party was a result of a split within the Congress over the issue of non-cooperation with the British government.
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Background and Formation of Swaraj Party:
1. Non-Cooperation Movement: The Swaraj Party was a direct outcome of the suspension of the non-cooperation movement by Mahatma Gandhi in the wake of the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922. Gandhi suspended the movement due to an outbreak of violence in Chauri Chaura, Uttar Pradesh, where a police station was attacked by protesters, leading to the death of several police officers.
2. Difference in Approach: Some leaders within the Indian National Congress, including Motilal Nehru, Chittaranjan Das, and others, disagreed with Gandhi's decision to call off the non-cooperation movement. They believed that political participation within the existing legislative framework could be a more effective means of pushing for constitutional reforms and Indian self-governance.
Objectives and Ideology:
1. Participation in Legislative Councils: The Swaraj Party contested elections to the legislative councils established by the Government of India Act 1919. They aimed to use these platforms to demand responsible government and push for constitutional reforms.
2. Gradual Progress towards Self-Government: While the Swaraj Party leaders sought self-governance for India, they were willing to work within the existing constitutional structure and use the councils to press for reforms.
Activities and Impact:
1. Legislative Work: Members of the Swaraj Party, after winning elections, actively participated in legislative debates and discussions. They presented proposals and demands aimed at increasing Indian representation and self-governance.
2. Moderation in Approach: Unlike the non-cooperation movement, which employed mass protests and nonviolent resistance, the Swaraj Party's approach was more moderate and involved working within the colonial legislative system.
Swaraj Party's Decline:
1. Limited Success: While the Swaraj Party won several seats in the legislatures, they faced challenges in achieving significant constitutional reforms due to the limited powers of the councils under the Government of India Act 1919.
2. Reunification with Congress: In 1926, the Swaraj Party decided to reunite with the Indian National Congress, ending its separate political existence. Leaders like Motilal Nehru and Chittaranjan Das rejoined the Congress, contributing to the party's efforts for independence.
The Swaraj Party, though relatively short-lived, represented an important phase in India's freedom struggle. It showcased a different strategy of political engagement within the colonial legislative framework, emphasizing the importance of constitutional reforms and political representation.