Question

Discuss the three phases of the Quit India Movement.

Answer 1

The Quit India Movement (1942) unfolded in three distinct phases, each marked by the nature of protests and their level of organisation. These are as follows:

1. First Phase – Urban Revolt (August 1942): This phase began immediately after Congress leaders were arrested on August 9, 1942. Cities hosted protests, strikes, processions, and rallies. Protesters included students, workers, and normal folks. The movement faced pressure from the British due to its lack of well-coordinated leadership.
2. Second Phase – Rural Unrest (Late 1942): City protests ended when the movement moved to rural areas. The locals attacked police stations, train tracks, and post offices, which symbolised British rule. Satara (Maharashtra), Tamluk (Bengal), and Ballia (U.P.) had Prati Sarkar governments. Many peasants participated in this combative phase.
3. Third Phase – Underground Resistance (1943 onwards): The movement went underground when its leaders were imprisoned. Usha Mehta, Jaya Prakash Narayan, and Ram Manohar Lohia organised secret radio shows, leaflet distributions and mischief. The resistance movement remained strong until mid-1944, when it essentially ended.