The experiences of the World War-II and the subsequent political developments played a crucial role in shaping the path towards India’s independence. Discuss.

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

1.  The experiences of the World War-II and the subsequent political developments played a crucial role in shaping the path towards India’s independence. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Chapter 22- A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir (Spectrum Publishers)

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.

Key Demand of the question:

To write in detail about the nationalist response to the outbreak of world war-II.

Directive word: 

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Mention the how the colonial government involved Indian army and resources in the World War II without reaching out any leaders.

Body:

Talk about the response of various leaders as a strategy to achieve self-rule in the context of World War II wherein one faction supported the idea of supporting the British against Fascist parties so that in return, they could achieve self-rule whereas, another faction was of the opinion to make use of the situation wherein the British resources were thinned and have an attack on the British in order to achieve independence. Mention the views of INC leaders.

Also mention actions take such as Congress ministries resigning, Individual satyagraha and wait and watch approach.

Conclusion:

Conclude by mentioning the stage being setup for the launch of Quit India movement.