Early Life and Education
How did Vithalbhai Patel's education influence his career?
After a self-taught start as a pleader, Vithalbhai Patel went to London to study law at the Middle Temple Inn. He finished the 36-month course in just 30 months and topped his class. This rigorous legal training gave him a deep understanding of constitutional law and parliamentary procedures, which he later used to challenge British colonial rule from within the legislative councils. This experience set him apart from many other freedom fighters who focused primarily on mass movements.
Political Career and Ideological Stance
Why did he help found the Swaraj Party?
Vithalbhai Patel, along with C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru, formed the Swaraj Party in 1923 because they disagreed with Mahatma Gandhi's decision to suspend the Non-Cooperation Movement after the Chauri Chaura incident. They were known as "pro-changers" who believed that nationalists should enter the legislative councils to disrupt the government from within. Their strategy was to use the very institutions of British rule to expose their flaws and advance the cause of freedom.
What was his key achievement as President of the Central Legislative Assembly?
As the first Indian to be elected President (Speaker) of the Central Legislative Assembly in 1925, Vithalbhai Patel's most significant achievement was asserting the legislature's independence from the British executive. He courageously challenged the Viceroy, insisted on a separate secretariat for the assembly, and implemented rules that protected the rights of Indian members. His actions transformed the assembly from a rubber stamp for the British into a forum for legitimate political debate, earning him immense respect and admiration from all sides.
Later Years and Legacy
What was the significance of his meeting with Subhas Chandra Bose?
During his final years, Vithalbhai Patel traveled to Europe for health reasons. There, he met with a young Subhas Chandra Bose. The two leaders shared a mutual respect and a similar vision for India's complete independence. Upon his death in 1933, Vithalbhai Patel famously left a portion of his property under the trusteeship of Subhas Chandra Bose, entrusting him with the responsibility of continuing the fight for India's political upliftment.
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