Theories on the Birth of the Indian National Congress (INC)

Theories on the Birth of Indian National Congress (1885)

Q: Examine the various theories regarding the birth of Indian National Congress.

The formation of the Indian National Congress in December 1885 at Bombay is a pivotal event in modern history. Various theories exist regarding its Genesis, reflecting the complex interplay between British administrative interests and emerging Indian Nationalism.

1. The Safety Valve Theory

Propounded by Lala Lajpat Rai and later used by the Extremists, this theory suggests that A.O. Hume (a retired British official) started the INC under the secret instructions of Viceroy Lord Dufferin. The motive was to provide a "Safety Valve" for the release of growing Popular Discontent among Indians, preventing a second revolt like 1857.

2. The Lightning Conductor Theory

Moderate leader G.K. Gokhale offered this counter-theory. He argued that Indian nationalists used Hume as a "Lightning Conductor" to protect the young movement from Official Suppression. If the founder had been Indian, the British would have crushed the organization immediately.

3. Nationalist and Marxist Theories

  • Nationalist View: Historians like Bipan Chandra argue that the INC was a natural culmination of Political Consciousness developed through earlier regional associations like the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.
  • Marxist View: R.P. Dutt saw it as a result of a Conspiracy to suppress a mass uprising and protect British Imperial Interests.

Definition of Key Term

Genesis: The Origin or the mode of formation of something. Example: The Genesis of the INC can be traced back to the growing Middle-Class Intellegentsia seeking a national platform for political grievances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Safety Valve theory remains popular, the Lightning Conductor theory is historically more plausible. The INC was not a mere British Creation but a response to Colonial Exploitation. For Viksit Odisha and India, the INC served as the primary Institutional Framework that eventually secured Swaraj through Constitutional Morality and mass struggle.

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