Q. Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (250 words, 15 marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2016
Keywords of the Question
- Differences in the approach
- Subhash Chandra Bose
- Mahatma Gandhi
- Struggle for freedom
Directive Word
Highlight –Refers to the directive word that instructs candidates to emphasize or draw attention to specific points, arguments, or aspects related to the topic. When asked to “highlight,” you are expected to succinctly present the most relevant and significant information without going into extensive detail. It’s essential to focus on key aspects and provide a concise yet impactful response.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction:
- Briefly introduce both leaders:
- Mahatma Gandhi: The iconic figure of India’s freedom movement, known for his philosophy of nonviolent civil disobedience (Ahimsa).
- Subhash Chandra Bose: A fervent advocate for armed resistance and militant action, who formed the Indian National Army (INA).
Body:
- Discuss the key differences in their philosophies and methods such as Ideological Perspectives, Path to Freedom, Leadership Styles etc.
Conclusion:
- Acknowledge their divergent ideologies and methods.
- Highlight that despite differences, both leaders admired and respected each other.
- Conclude by emphasizing their collective contribution to India’s independence.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
Mahatma Gandhi and Subhash Chandra Bose were pivotal figures in India’s struggle for independence. Their distinct approaches reflected their ideologies and convictions. While Gandhi championed nonviolent civil disobedience, Bose advocated for armed resistance.
Body
Differences in Approach:
- Ideological Perspectives:
- Gandhi: Emphasized nonviolent resistance and moral persuasion.
- His philosophy of Ahimsa (nonviolence) aimed to transform society through love and self-control.
- Bose: Advocated for armed struggle and revolutionary action.
- He believed in the urgency of direct confrontation with British rule.
- Gandhi: Emphasized nonviolent resistance and moral persuasion.
- Path to Freedom:
- Gandhi: Sought Swaraj (self-rule) through peaceful means.
- His focus was on galvanizing the masses through satyagraha (truth-force) and civil disobedience.
- Bose: Urged for complete independence from British rule.
- He believed that armed insurrection was a pragmatic response to imperialistic forces.
- Gandhi: Sought Swaraj (self-rule) through peaceful means.
- Leadership Styles:
- Gandhi: Symbolized by his philosophy of Ahimsa, love, and self-control.
- His leadership was rooted in moral authority and spiritual strength.
- Bose: Known as Netaji, he displayed boldness, assertiveness, and military acumen.
- His leadership led to the formation of the Indian National Army (INA).
- Gandhi: Symbolized by his philosophy of Ahimsa, love, and self-control.
- Methods:
- Bose: Formed the Indian National Army (INA), seeking military overthrow with support from Nazi Germany and Japan.
- Gandhi: Led nonviolent mass movements, including boycotts and civil disobedience.
- Views on Partition:
- Bose: Firmly against partition, considering it a British conspiracy.
- Gandhi: Reluctantly accepted partition to prevent Hindu-Muslim riots.
- Alternative Models:
- Bose: Envisioned a socialist authoritarian model for independent India.
- Gandhi: Advocated for a decentralized, village-based economy supporting cottage industries.
- Communal Harmony:
- Gandhi: Worked to unite Hindus and Muslims through platforms like the Khilafat Movement.
- Bose: Focused solely on military conquest against the British.
Conclusion
Despite their divergent paths, both leaders admired and respected each other. Their contrasting ideologies enriched the freedom movement, demonstrating the range of ideas and strategies that ultimately contributed to India’s independence.