Question

Discuss the causes of difference between Subhas Chandra Bose and Gandhiji.

Answer 1

1. The differences between Subhas Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi arose from their contrasting ideologies, methods, and approaches to achieving India’s independence.
2. Firstly, Bose believed in direct action and armed struggle to overthrow British rule, whereas Gandhi strongly advocated non-violence and civil disobedience as the path to freedom.
3. Bose was inspired by revolutionary nationalism and sought support from foreign powers like Germany and Japan, which Gandhi opposed, as he believed such alliances compromised moral principles.
4. Secondly, during his presidency of the Indian National Congress in 1938 and 1939, Bose proposed launching an immediate mass movement, even during World War II, believing that the British were vulnerable.
5. Gandhi and senior Congress leaders disagreed, arguing that it was not the right time and that India should support Britain in return for a promise of post-war independence.
6. Lastly, their leadership styles also differed. Gandhi had mass moral authority and spiritual influence, while Bose was more radical, assertive, and militaristic in his approach.
7. These fundamental differences led to Bose’s resignation from the Congress presidency in 1939 and the formation of the Forward Bloc, marking a major ideological split within the national movement.