Quit India Movement Day 2024 (9th August), History & Significance
Quit India Movement Day 2024
Quit India Movement Day, also known as “August Kranti Diwas,” is observed on August 9th every year in India to commemorate the Quit India Movement that was launched on this day in 1942. The movement was a significant milestone in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
This year, we celebrate the 82nd anniversary of a very important event in India’s history. It’s a time to remember and learn from the brave actions and sacrifices of the past, so we can be inspired for today and tomorrow.
Quit India Movement
On August 8, 1942, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) passed the Quit India Resolution at its session in Bombay, demanding an immediate end to British rule in India. The next day, August 9th, marked the official launch of the Quit India Movement, with Mahatma Gandhi giving the iconic “Do or Die” call for Indians to rally behind the cause of complete independence.
Aim of the Movement
The Quit India Movement was a mass protest against British rule and aimed at nonviolent non-cooperation and civil disobedience. The movement saw widespread participation from people across India, including students, workers, and various sections of society. It led to large-scale demonstrations, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience, resulting in significant disruption to the British administration and the economy.
British Response
The British authorities responded with a heavy-handed crackdown, arresting numerous leaders and activists, including Mahatma Gandhi himself. The movement was met with violence and repression, but it also demonstrated the unity and determination of the Indian people in their quest for freedom.
Paved the Way for Independence
While the Quit India Movement did not lead to immediate independence, it played a crucial role in intensifying the struggle for freedom and garnering international support for India’s cause. It marked a turning point in India’s fight against colonialism and inspired further momentum toward independence.
Post-World War II
During this time, there were many violent protests across the country against British rule.
- Thousands of leaders were arrested by the British and kept in prison until 1945.
- Eventually, the British government realized that governing India was becoming impossible, and they started thinking about how to leave peacefully after the war.
- The movement came to an end in 1945 when the imprisoned freedom fighters were released. Some brave individuals who became martyrs of this movement include Mukunda Kakati, Matangini Hazra, Kanaklata Barua, Kushal Konwar, Bhogeswari Phukanani, and others.
Most Serious Rebellion After 1857
The Quit India movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi on August 9, 1942, in Bombay’s Gowalia Tank Maidan, marked a significant moment in India’s struggle for independence. Viceroy Linlithgow considered this movement the most serious rebellion against British rule since the events of 1857.
- The All India Congress Committee led a massive protest, demanding what Gandhi termed an “Orderly British Withdrawal” from India.
- Despite being engaged in World War II, the British authorities were prepared to take action. Almost all prominent leaders of the Indian National Congress were swiftly arrested without trial shortly after Gandhi’s speech.
- Aruna Asaf Ali, fondly known as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of the Independence Movement, gained recognition for raising the Indian flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan during the Quit India Movement.
- The famous slogan ‘Quit India’ was coined by Yusuf Meherally, a socialist and trade unionist who also served as the Mayor of Mumbai. Meherally also introduced the slogan “Simon Go Back.”
- Most of the leaders spent the remainder of the war imprisoned, disconnected from the masses. The British received support from various quarters, including the Viceroy’s Council, the All India Muslim League, princely states, the Indian Imperial Police, the British Indian Army, and the Indian Civil Service.
- Many Indian businesspeople, benefiting from substantial wartime spending, did not endorse the Quit India Movement.
- The primary external backing for the movement came from the United States, where President Franklin D. Roosevelt urged Prime Minister Winston Churchill to address some of India’s demands.
Significance of Quit India Movement Day
Quit India Movement Day is a day to remember the sacrifices of the freedom fighters who fought for India’s independence. It is also a day to reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of freedom, democracy, and justice.
- It is a day to remember the sacrifices of the freedom fighters who fought for India’s independence.
- It is a day to reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of freedom, democracy, and justice.
- It is a day to celebrate the unity and strength of the Indian people.
- It is a day to look forward to the future of India as a free and independent nation.
On Quit India Movement Day, people across India pay tribute to the freedom fighters who fought for India’s independence. They also reaffirm their commitment to the ideals of freedom, democracy, and justice. The day is also a time to celebrate the unity and strength of the Indian people.
Read More Related Articles:
, History & Significance){kind=link}
0 Comments