What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its results. (Answer in 150 words) (UPSC IAS Mains 2024 General Studies Paper – 1)
The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a civil disobedience movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi in August 1942, demanding an end to British rule in India.
Events
- Failure of Cripps Mission (1942):The British sent Cripps Mission to negotiate India''s support for World War II, failed due to its lack of concrete proposals for immediate independence, which disillusioned Indian leaders.
- British exploitation during World War II: India was dragged into the war without its consent, resulting in severe economic hardships, inflation, and scarcity of basic goods, leading to widespread unrest.
- Rising frustration with British rule: Despite contributions to the war effort, India continued to be ruled as a colony. The refusal to grant complete independence after the war deepened the demand for freedom.
- Leadership of Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership in advocating for non-violent resistance against colonial rule created the foundation for the mass movement. His slogan "Do or Die" inspired the masses to join the struggle for complete independence.
- Global momentum for decolonization: With the weakening of British power due to the ongoing World War, there was global momentum for decolonization. Indian leaders wanted to capitalize on this opportunity.
Results
- Severe British crackdown: The British government responded with harsh measures, including the arrest of major leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel, along with mass repression.
- Rise of underground resistance: The repression led to the rise of underground networks that continued the fight against British rule through acts of sabotage, dissemination of pamphlets, and other covert activities.
- Strengthening of national unity: The movement unified Indians across regions, classes, and religions in the struggle for independence. The participation of women and youth was notably significant.
- Set the stage for eventual independence: Although the movement was suppressed, it was a crucial turning point in India’s independence struggle. It weakened the British hold on India and convinced them that maintaining colonial rule would not be sustainable post-war.
- Increased global awareness: The Quit India Movement attracted international attention to India''s cause for independence, gaining sympathy and support from global powers like the United States.
The Quit India Movement was a significant chapter in India''s struggle for independence, highlighting the power of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience in challenging colonial rule. It played a crucial role in shaping the course of Indian history and ultimately led to the end of British rule in India.
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