Century of the Communist Party of India: Tracing Its Journey

100 Years of the Communist Party of India

The Communist Party of India (CPI) has celebrated a century since its establishment, originating from the Kanpur conference on December 26, 1925. This milestone has reignited discussions about the emergence of communism in India, examining its ideological influences, organizational growth, and significant role in the freedom struggle.

Global Antecedents of Indian Communism

The roots of communism can be traced back to the political upheavals in Europe following the French Revolution in 1789 and the Napoleonic Wars from 1796 to 1815. These events polarized societies between monarchist supporters and those advocating for republican reforms. Additionally, the Industrial Revolution exacerbated social inequalities, creating a fertile ground for socialist ideologies.

Karl Marx, a pivotal figure in 19th-century European thought, argued for a transition from capitalism to socialism. Although Marx anticipated socialist revolutions in advanced capitalist societies, the first successful socialist revolution occurred in Russia in 1917, a relatively underdeveloped Tsarist empire. This revolution combined anti-feudal, anti-capitalist, and anti-imperialist sentiments, making it particularly appealing to colonized nations like India.

Three Political Strands Behind CPI’s Formation

The formation of Indian communism emerged from three distinct yet converging strands:

• The MN Roy–Comintern Strand: MN Roy, who lived across various countries including the US, Mexico, and later the USSR, played a critical role. His participation in the 1920 Comintern meeting as India’s representative led to discussions on how communism could adapt to colonial contexts, influencing Indian communist thought.
• Independent Left Groups in India: Various Left groups formed independently in cities like Lahore, Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras, each sharing anti-imperialist and socialist goals.
• Worker–Peasant Organisations: Organizations such as the All-India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), established in 1920, provided a robust mass base, linking socialism with labor and agrarian movements.

Origin Story: Tashkent vs Kanpur Debate

In 1920, in Tashkent, four Indian revolutionaries, including MN Roy, established a Communist Party under Comintern influence with the aim of liberating India from British rule and establishing socialism. However, it lacked support from Indian Left groups.

By 1925, the Kanpur Conference marked a significant point as Indian communist factions convened nationally, resolving to form the Communist Party of India. Their objectives included:

• Ending British colonial rule
• Establishing a republic for workers and peasants
• Socializing production and distribution means

A key ideological divide emerged, with CPI(M) tracing its origins to Tashkent, emphasizing internationalism, while CPI highlighted Kanpur as its foundation, asserting the Indian essence of communism.

Social Reform and Anti-Oppression Stance

Early communists opposed not only colonial exploitation but also caste oppression and patriarchy. At the Kanpur conference, chair M Singaravelu condemned untouchability, making CPI the first organization to exclude members from communal bodies, underscoring its secular and inclusive ethos.

Role in the Freedom Struggle (1925–1947)

Between 1925 and 1928, communists played a vital role in organizing workers' and peasants' movements. In 1929, leaders were arrested during the Meerut Conspiracy Case for organizing railway strikes, leading to many being jailed or deported. The 1930s saw collaboration with the Congress Socialist Party in a united front against imperialism, though this alliance collapsed in 1939 due to ideological differences.

Post-1945, communists led significant peasant movements, notably in Bengal and Telangana, showcasing their commitment to agrarian justice.

Shaping the Constitution and Mass Mobilization

The influence of communists was evident in the Constituent Assembly debates concerning land reforms, workers' rights, and protections for marginalized communities. Movements like the Telangana Rebellion reflected their dedication to agrarian justice. The CPI mobilized various societal groups through organizations like the All India Trade Union Congress, All India Kisan Sabha, and the Progressive Writers’ Association, embedding ideals of liberty, equality, fraternity, and justice in post-Independence discourse.

Post-Independence Trajectory

After 1947, Indian communists took divergent paths—some adopted armed insurrection strategies, while others pursued power through parliamentary democracy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What was the significance of the Kanpur Conference in 1925?
Answer: The Kanpur Conference marked the formal establishment of the Communist Party of India, setting objectives like ending British rule and advocating for a republic for workers and peasants.

Q2. How did the CPI influence the Indian freedom struggle?
Answer: The CPI organized significant workers' and peasants' movements and collaborated with other parties to challenge colonial rule, significantly shaping the political landscape during the freedom struggle.

Q3. What were the ideological roots of Indian communism?
Answer: Indian communism drew from global socialist movements, particularly Marxism, and adapted to local conditions influenced by the anti-colonial struggle and socio-economic inequalities.

Q4. How did the CPI address social issues like caste oppression?
Answer: The CPI opposed caste oppression and patriarchy, condemning practices like untouchability and promoting secularism and inclusivity within its ranks.