- Participation in NCM, CDM, and Quit India
- Role of women leaders: Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, Sucheta Kripalani
- Salt Satyagraha and picketing liquor shops
- Women’s organisations: All India Women’s Conference (1927)
- Contribution in press, protest, underground work
Role of Women in the Indian National Movement: From Sarojini Naidu to Aruna Asaf Ali
Introduction
The Indian National Movement witnessed significant participation from women, who emerged as vital contributors to the struggle for independence. Their involvement not only advanced the cause of freedom but also challenged traditional gender roles, paving the way for future generations. This overview focuses on notable leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Aruna Asaf Ali, highlighting their contributions and the broader impact of women’s activism during this transformative period in Indian history.
Historical Context
- Pre-Independence Era: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw women participating in social reform movements aimed at education, health, and social rights.
- Involvement in Nationalism: As the demand for independence grew, women began to take roles in political movements, often influenced by earlier social reformers.
Sarojini Naidu (1879-1949)
- Background: Sarojini Naidu was a poet, freedom fighter, and politician, known as the “Nightingale of India.”
Political Engagement:
- Joined the Indian National Congress in 1906 and became an active member.
- Played a crucial role in the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Civil Disobedience Movement.
Leadership and Advocacy:
- First woman to become the president of the Indian National Congress in 1925.
- Advocated for women’s rights and emphasized their role in nation-building.
- Organized the All India Women’s Conference in 1931, focusing on women’s issues and empowerment.
Kamala Nehru (1899-1936)
- Background: Kamala Nehru, wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, was deeply involved in the national movement.
Contributions:
- Actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and other protests against British rule.
- Promoted women’s education and played a role in the establishment of various educational institutions.
- Worked towards mobilizing women across the country to join the freedom struggle.
Aruna Asaf Ali (1909-1996)
Background: A prominent activist known for her radical stance and commitment to the independence movement.
Key Contributions:
- Rose to prominence during the Quit India Movement in 1942, famously hoisting the national flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Bombay.
- Led protests and inspired many to join the struggle, emphasizing the need for collective action against colonial rule.
- Advocated for social justice and women’s rights, becoming a symbol of resistance.
Other Notable Women Leaders
- Annie Besant: Played a key role in the Home Rule Movement and promoted education and social reforms for women.
- Begum Roquiah Sakhawat Hossain: An early feminist and social reformer who worked for women’s education and empowerment.
- Fatima Sheikh: One of the first Muslim women educators in India, actively involved in the independence movement.
Impact on Society
- Challenging Gender Norms: Women’s participation in the national movement significantly altered societal perceptions of gender roles.
- Legacy of Activism: The contributions of these women laid the foundation for future feminist movements in India, inspiring subsequent generations to fight for equality and rights.
Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM) (1920-1922)
Background
- Historical Context: The NCM emerged after the widespread discontent against British rule, particularly following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, where British troops killed hundreds of unarmed Indian civilians. The Rowlatt Act of 1919 further fueled resentment by allowing repressive measures against Indians.
- Gandhi’s Leadership: Mahatma Gandhi returned from South Africa in 1915, advocating for nonviolent resistance (Satyagraha). His philosophy resonated with many Indians who were disillusioned with British authority.
Objectives
- To establish self-rule (Swaraj) and promote national unity by encouraging Indians to withdraw support from British institutions.
Key Events
- Launch: In September 1920, the Indian National Congress (INC) formally adopted the NCM as a strategy to resist British rule.
- Boycott Initiatives: Participants boycotted British goods, educational institutions, legal courts, and titles. They promoted indigenous products through campaigns like “Swadeshi.”
- Formation of Parallel Institutions: Many leaders established schools, courts, and other institutions to replace British ones.
Participation
- Diverse Involvement: The movement saw participation from various segments of society:
- Students: Universities and colleges became centers of protests.
- Women: Women participated actively, forming groups and engaging in protests.
- Peasants and Workers: Mobilization in rural areas against oppressive policies, especially in regions like Awadh and Bardoli.
Limitations
- Violence and Withdrawal: The movement faced challenges when violence erupted at Chauri Chaura in February 1922, leading Gandhi to call off the movement to maintain its nonviolent nature.
- Impact: Despite its abrupt end, the NCM significantly raised political consciousness and demonstrated the potential for mass mobilization.
Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) (1930-1934)
Background
- Global Context: The Great Depression affected economies worldwide, leading to increased discontent with colonial rule. The British response to the economic crisis was perceived as inadequate.
- Salt March: Gandhi’s Salt March in March 1930 was a pivotal event that symbolized defiance against British laws and was a direct challenge to the salt monopoly.
Objectives
- To challenge British authority through nonviolent means, focusing on specific laws (like the salt tax) and demanding greater autonomy.
Key Events
- Salt March: Gandhi and followers marched 240 miles to produce salt from seawater, breaking the law and igniting widespread participation across India.
- Mass Campaigns: Following the Salt March, there were numerous acts of civil disobedience, including refusal to pay taxes, boycotting British goods, and organizing rallies.
Participation
- Broad Mobilization: The CDM attracted diverse groups:
- Women: Played crucial roles, participating in protests and leading local movements.
- Workers and Peasants: Many engaged in strikes and organized protests against exploitative practices.
- Intellectuals and Students: Contributed to the movement through writings, speeches, and organizing activities.
Limitations
- Repression: The British government responded with harsh repression, including arrests of thousands, including Gandhi and other leaders. This led to a decline in organized activity by 1934.
- Internal Conflicts: Differences within the INC regarding strategies and goals created friction and hindered cohesive action.
Quit India Movement (1942)
Background
- World War II Context: The onset of World War II saw India drawn into the conflict without consultation, leading to increased dissatisfaction with British rule.
- Cripps Mission: In 1942, the British government sent the Cripps Mission to negotiate with Indian leaders, but the proposals were deemed inadequate, leading to heightened tensions.
Objectives
- To demand an end to British rule in India and immediate independence.
Key Events
- Launch: On August 8, 1942, during the Bombay session of the INC, Gandhi called for the “Do or Die” campaign, urging people to take action for independence.
- Mass Uprisings: The movement sparked widespread protests, strikes, and demonstrations across the country, with significant involvement from students and youth.
Participation
- Widespread Engagement: The Quit India Movement saw unprecedented participation:
- Youth and Students: Many young people took to the streets, organizing protests and rallies.
- Grassroots Movements: Local leaders mobilise communities, leading to spontaneous uprisings against British authorities.
- Women: Women played a prominent role, with many participating in protests and leading local initiatives.
Limitations
- Brutal Crackdown: The British response was severe, involving mass arrests of leaders and activists. Many INC leaders were imprisoned, leading to a temporary decline in organized resistance.
- Fragmentation: The movement faced fragmentation, with some groups advocating for armed struggle while others emphasized nonviolence.
Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay
Background
- Early Life: Born on April 3, 1903, in Mangalore, Kamaladevi was educated in various parts of India and had a strong inclination towards social reform.
- Activism: She became involved in the Indian independence movement at a young age, influenced by her progressive family and education.
Contributions
Role in Freedom Struggle:
- Actively participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement.
- Emphasized the importance of women’s participation in the national movement, advocating for their rights and empowerment.
Cultural Revival:
- A strong proponent of Indian handicrafts and cottage industries, she played a crucial role in the revival of traditional crafts and weaving post-independence.
- Founded the All India Handicrafts Board in 1952, promoting artisans and preserving traditional arts.
Women’s Rights Advocacy:
- Instrumental in the formation of the All India Women’s Conference (AIWC) in 1931, which focused on women’s education, health, and socio-economic rights.
- Worked towards drafting the Hindu Code Bill, advocating for women’s legal rights in marriage and inheritance.
Legacy
- Recognition: Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1955 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1987 for her contributions to society.
- Influence: Her efforts laid the groundwork for future generations of women activists and leaders in India, emphasizing the significance of women’s roles in both the freedom struggle and nation-building.
Sucheta Kripalani
Background
- Early Life: Born on June 25, 1908, in Lahore, Sucheta was educated at the University of Punjab and later at the University of London.
- Political Involvement: Joined the Indian National Congress and became actively involved in the freedom movement during the 1930s.
Contributions
Leadership in the Freedom Struggle:
- Played a crucial role in the Quit India Movement of 1942, leading protests and mobilizing women across the country.
- One of the first woman to preside over the Indian National Congress session in 1940, highlighting the increasing political involvement of women.
Post-Independence Role:
- Served as the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh from 1963 to 1967, becoming the first woman to hold such a position in any Indian state.
- Focused on social reforms, particularly in education and women’s empowerment during her tenure.
Advocacy for Women’s Rights:
- Promoted women’s issues within the political framework, emphasizing the need for gender equality and women’s representation in governance.
- Actively participated in the drafting of the Indian Constitution, advocating for provisions that protected women’s rights.
Legacy
- Recognition: Sucheta Kripalani is remembered as a pioneering figure in Indian politics and women’s rights.
- Influence: Her leadership inspired numerous women to enter politics and public service, demonstrating that women could hold significant positions of power and influence in a newly independent India.
Salt Satyagraha (1930)
Background
- Historical Context: The Salt Satyagraha was initiated against the British salt monopoly, which imposed heavy taxes on salt, a staple commodity for all Indians. The tax was particularly burdensome for the poor, who relied on salt for preservation and nutrition.
- Gandhi’s Leadership: Mahatma Gandhi aimed to mobilize the masses through a nonviolent campaign that highlighted the injustices of British rule and sought to galvanize national unity.
Objectives
- To challenge the British salt laws and promote self-reliance (Swaraj) by producing salt from seawater.
- To awaken national consciousness and encourage widespread participation in the struggle for independence.
Key Events
- The March: On March 12, 1930, Gandhi and 78 followers embarked on a 240-mile march from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi, where they would produce salt illegally.
- Salt Production: On April 6, 1930, upon reaching Dandi, Gandhi made salt from seawater, symbolically defying British law and encouraging others to do the same.
- Widespread Participation: The Salt Satyagraha inspired thousands of Indians to engage in acts of civil disobedience, including making their own salt and boycotting British goods.
Impact
- Mass Mobilization: The movement marked a significant increase in public participation, with strikes and protests erupting across the country.
- International Attention: The Salt Satyagraha garnered global attention, drawing support for India’s independence cause and highlighting the repressive nature of British colonial rule.
- Government Response: The British authorities responded with arrests and repression, including the imprisonment of Gandhi and many other leaders, but this only fueled further resistance.
Picketing Liquor Shops
Background
- Social Context: In addition to the Salt Satyagraha, picketing liquor shops became a significant form of protest during the civil disobedience movements. Alcohol consumption was seen as detrimental to Indian society, contributing to social issues like poverty and domestic violence.
- Alignment with Nationalism: The movement against liquor shops was also intertwined with the nationalist agenda, as it sought to reform societal norms and promote self-discipline among Indians.
Objectives
- To protest against the British government’s licensing of liquor shops, viewed as exploitative and harmful to Indian society.
- To promote temperance and advocate for the health and well-being of Indian families.
Key Events
- Picketing Campaigns: Activists, often organized by local Congress committees and women’s groups, would gather outside liquor shops to peacefully protest, urging customers not to purchase alcohol.
- Nonviolent Resistance: Picketing was conducted nonviolently, with protesters using slogans, pamphlets, and peaceful demonstrations to convey their message.
- Women’s Involvement: Many women played a prominent role in these picketing campaigns, reflecting their growing political consciousness and involvement in the independence movement.
Impact
- Awareness and Mobilization: The picketing of liquor shops raised awareness about social issues related to alcohol consumption and mobilized communities to engage in broader discussions about morality, health, and independence.
- Repression and Arrests: Similar to the Salt Satyagraha, picketers faced police repression, leading to arrests and violent confrontations, which further galvanized public support for the movement.
- Legacy of Social Reform: The campaigns against liquor shops contributed to ongoing discussions about social reform in post-independence India, influencing future policies regarding alcohol regulation and public health.
Background
Historical Context
- Emergence of Women’s Movements: The early 20th century saw a growing awareness of women’s rights and issues in India, influenced by global movements for gender equality and social reform.
- Need for a Unified Platform: Various women’s organizations existed, but there was a need for a national body to address women’s issues comprehensively and cohesively.
Founding
- Establishment: The AIWC was founded on 27th April 1927 in Allahabad, by prominent leaders such as Margaret Cousins, who played a crucial role in advocating for women’s education and social welfare.
- Initial Motivation: The conference aimed to create a platform for women to discuss their rights, roles in society, and the challenges they faced under colonial rule.
Objectives
- Empowerment of Women: To promote women’s education, health, and economic independence as essential components of social progress.
- Advocacy for Rights: To advocate for women’s legal rights, including marriage, divorce, custody, and inheritance.
- Social Reform: To address social issues affecting women, including child marriage, dowry, and women’s participation in public life.
- National Integration: To encourage women’s involvement in the national movement for independence, positioning them as active participants in the struggle against colonial rule.
Activities
Conferences and Meetings
- Annual Sessions: The AIWC organized annual conferences that brought together women from various backgrounds to discuss issues, share experiences, and formulate action plans.
- Resolutions and Recommendations: These conferences resulted in resolutions addressing specific issues, which were then presented to the government and society at large.
Advocacy and Campaigns
- Legal Reforms: The AIWC played a vital role in advocating for legislative changes that would improve women’s rights, such as the Hindu Code Bill in the 1950s.
- Educational Initiatives: The organization promoted women’s education by establishing schools and vocational training centers, emphasizing the importance of literacy and skills for economic independence.
Community Engagement
- Grassroots Mobilization: The AIWC worked with local women’s groups to address regional issues, promoting grassroots activism and community involvement.
- Health and Welfare Programs: Initiatives included health camps, awareness programs on maternal and child health, and campaigns against social evils like child marriage.
Impact
Social Change
- Awareness Raising: The AIWC raised awareness about women’s issues and rights, leading to greater public discourse on gender equality in Indian society.
- Inspiration for Future Generations: The organization inspired many women to engage in activism and public life, contributing to the growth of subsequent women’s movements in India.
Political Influence
- Participation in National Movement: By integrating women’s issues with the broader struggle for independence, the AIWC helped position women as significant contributors to the national cause.
- Legacy of Leadership: Many leaders from the AIWC went on to occupy important positions in post-independence India, influencing policies related to women’s rights and social reform.
Contribution in press, protest, underground work
Contribution in Press
Historical Context
- Role of the Press: The press played a critical role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for the independence movement. It served as a platform for dissent against colonial rule and a means to disseminate nationalist ideas.
Key Contributions
- Nationalist Newspapers: Many newspapers and journals, such as “The Hindustan Times,” “The Tribune,” and “Kesari,” were established to promote nationalist sentiments and critique British policies.
- Literature and Pamphlets: Publications included pamphlets, leaflets, and books that educated the masses about the injustices of colonial rule. Notable figures like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi used the press to communicate their ideologies.
- Language and Regional Outreach: The press also utilized regional languages to reach a broader audience, making nationalist ideas accessible to various communities across India.
- Women’s Voices: Women journalists and writers, such as Sarojini Naidu, contributed significantly by highlighting women’s issues and advocating for their rights through their writings.
Impact
- Awareness and Mobilization: The press galvanized public sentiment, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among Indians fighting for independence.
- Critique of Colonial Policies: Journalistic efforts exposed the exploitative nature of British rule, contributing to growing discontent and resistance.
Contribution in Protest
Historical Context
- Forms of Protest: Protests took various forms, including peaceful demonstrations, civil disobedience, strikes, and mass movements. They were essential strategies employed by leaders and activists to challenge colonial authority.
Key Contributions
- Civil Disobedience Movement: Initiated by Gandhi in the early 1930s, it involved widespread nonviolent resistance against unjust laws, notably the Salt Satyagraha.
- Mass Mobilization: Leaders organized large-scale protests, rallies, and boycotts (e.g., the boycott of British goods), which drew participation from diverse sections of society.
- Role of Women: Women actively participated in protests, with organizations like the All India Women’s Conference and local groups mobilizing women for various campaigns, including picketing liquor shops and participating in the Quit India Movement.
- Student Involvement: Students played a vital role in protests, often leading demonstrations and strikes against British educational policies.
Impact
- Increased Resistance:
Protests created a climate of resistance, compelling the British government to take notice of the demands for independence.
- Unity Across Regions: Protests fostered a sense of national unity and solidarity, transcending regional and communal divides.
Contribution in Underground Work
Historical Context
- Need for Secrecy: As the independence movement intensified, some activists resorted to underground work to evade British repression and continue their efforts against colonial rule.
Key Contributions
- Formation of Secret Societies: Groups like the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) operated clandestinely, planning revolutionary activities and armed resistance against the British.
- Sabotage and Assassination: Underground activists engaged in sabotage against British institutions and targeted key officials to disrupt colonial administration.
- Communication Networks: Establishing secret communication channels allowed revolutionaries to coordinate efforts and share information without detection.
- Support for Political Prisoners: Underground networks provided assistance to imprisoned freedom fighters, raising awareness about their plight and organizing protests for their release.
Impact
- Radicalization of the Movement: The underground work contributed to the radical elements within the independence movement, inspiring younger generations to take direct action against colonial rule.
- Fear Among British Authorities: The activities of underground groups instilled fear in the British administration, leading to increased repression but also heightened resolve among Indian nationalists.
MCQ:-
UPSC Prelims 2011
Q. 1 With reference to Indian freedom struggle, consider the following statements:
- The First Woman President of the Indian National Congress was Sarojini Naidu.
- The first woman Governor of an Indian State was also Sarojini Naidu.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation: First woman president was Annie Besant (1917), not Sarojini Naidu.
Q. 2 Who among the following was the first Indian woman to become president of the Indian National Congress?
(a) Sarojini Naidu
(b) Vijayalakshmi Pandit
(c) Annie Besant
(d) Aruna Asaf Ali
Answer: (c) Annie Besant
Note: Often confused with Sarojini Naidu, who was the first Indian-born woman president (1925, Kanpur session).
