Topic: The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
1. The Surat Split was caused by a clash of ideologies and leadership styles within the Indian National Congress (INC). While it weakened the national movement in the short term, it also had long-term impacts, including the growth of mass-based politics, the rise of militant nationalism, and the influence on future movements and leaders. Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
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-2024 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To discuss and contrast the ideologies and methods of Moderates and Extremists which ultimately resulted in the Surat Split.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.
Body:
Write about the factors that led to the split -Bring out the shortcomings of liberal moderates and their disconnect with the masses and the rise of extremists to fill this gap. Contrast the ideas of Extremists vis-à-vis the Moderates such as use of methods of appeals as against the radical moves, belief in masses, use of press with a strong language against the British by Tilak, personalities such as Aurobindo promoting superiority of our own civilisation etc.
Next, write about the short-term impact of the split.
Next, write about the long-term impact of the split.
Conclusion:
Mention that although the end was to attain Swaraj, the means to achieve it was different in the eyes of the Moderates and Extremists and that mutual distrust led to the Surat split.
