Delve into the split between Swarajists and No-Changers in early Indian nationalism, the formation of the Congress-Khilafat Swarajya Party, and the eventual compromise in 1923.
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Swarajists and No-Changers
Genesis of Congress-Khilafat Swarajya Party
After Gandhi’s arrest in March 1922, the nationalist movement faced disintegration, disorganization, and demoralization.
A debate began among Congress members on how to proceed during the movement's passive phase.
C.R. Das, Motilal Nehru, and Ajmal Khan led a faction that wanted to end the boycott of legislative councils, allowing nationalists to enter and expose the councils' weaknesses.
They aimed to "end or mend" the councils, obstructing their function if the government ignored nationalist demands.
Emergence of Swarajists and No-Changers
The group advocating legislative entry became known as the ‘Swarajists,’ while those opposing it were called the ‘No-Changers.’
The ‘No-Changers,’ led by C. Rajagopalachari, Vallabhbhai Patel, Rajendra Prasad, and M.A. Ansari, supported constructive work, the continuation of the boycott, and preparation for the next phase of civil disobedience.
Differences between the two factions led to the defeat of the Swarajists' proposal at the Gaya session of Congress in December 1922.
C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru resigned from their Congress leadership positions and formed the Congress-Khilafat Swarajya Party, with Das as president and Nehru as secretary.
Swarajists’ Arguments
Entering the councils would not negate the non-cooperation movement; it would simply be a new front in the struggle.
During a political vacuum, council work would help keep the masses engaged and maintain their morale.
Nationalists in the councils could prevent the government from filling them with undesirable elements who might support government measures.
The councils would serve as an arena for political struggle rather than organs for the gradual transformation of colonial rule.
No-Changers’ Arguments
The No-Changers argued that parliamentary work would lead to the neglect of constructive work, a loss of revolutionary zeal, and political corruption.
They believed that focusing on constructive work would better prepare the masses for the next phase of civil disobedience.
Agree to Disagree
Despite their differences, both sides sought to avoid a split like the one in 1907 and maintained contact with Gandhi, who was in jail.
They recognized the importance of a united front to force government reforms and acknowledged the necessity of Gandhi's leadership.
A compromise was reached in September 1923, allowing the Swarajists to contest elections as a group within the Congress.
The Swarajists accepted the Congress program, with the exception that they would join legislative councils. Elections to the Central Legislative Assembly and provincial assemblies were held in November 1923.
Swarajists and No-Changers
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