During its first twenty years the Congress made moderate demands. The members placed their demands before the Government always in the form of petitions and worked within the framework of law. Do you think that the moderate phase of the national movement must be considered a failure? State your opinion.

Topic: The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.

2. During its first twenty years the Congress made moderate demands. The members placed their demands before the Government always in the form of petitions and worked within the framework of law. Do you think that the moderate phase of the national movement must be considered a failure? State your opinion. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To explain in detail the features of moderate phase of INC and their style of functioning and to analyze the impact on the national movement.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Start by writing about the moderate phase of INC, its nature and its leaders.

Body:

First, Explain in the detail the nature of the moderate phase of INC. Their Aims and Objectives, Constitutional nature, Belief in the British, Inspiration, mode of operation, core composition, and important outcomes.

Next, write about the limitations of moderates – mention the belief of moderates in sense of justice of the British rule. They knew the exploitative nature of British rule but wanted its reforms and not expulsion.

Mention at its nascent stage they could not all out ask for expulsion for the fear of a crackdown on the entire organization. They had to tread carefully between nationalistic interests and protecting the nascent congress.

Conclusion:

Conclude by passing a balanced judgement on the successes and limitations of moderates.