Radicalism in the Indian National Congress was a shift in political strategy and ideology that emerged in the late 19th century. Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak championed this assertive approach, which diverged from the earlier moderate methods of appealing to British authorities. Radicals promoted popular mobilization and direct action rather than relying solely on petitions and constitutional negotiations. They believed that swaraj (self-rule) was a right to be taken, not a favor to be asked for.
The radical faction, often called the "Extremists," included prominent leaders such as Bipin Chandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. This trio, famously known as Lal-Bal-Pal, became iconic figures of the movement.
A pivotal event illustrating the divide between radicals and moderates was the Surat Split of 1907. During this Congress session, ideological disagreements over methods to achieve swaraj led to the party splitting into two factions. Although this temporarily weakened the Congress, it underscored the growing influence of radical thought.
Despite internal divisions, the Lucknow Pact of 1916 brought the Congress and the Muslim League together to present a united demand for greater self-government. This historic agreement, facilitated by leaders from both sides, represented a crucial temporary alliance that demonstrated unified nationalist sentiment against British rule. It also marked the re-entry of radical leaders into the Congress after the Surat Split.
The radical phase laid the foundation for mass political consciousness among Indians. Following Tilak's death in 1920, Mahatma Gandhi introduced Satyagraha (non-violent resistance), mobilizing millions across all sections of society. The Gandhian era expanded upon the radical foundation of mass action but added a moral and ethical dimension, transforming the independence struggle into a truly inclusive movement.
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