Lecture Notes on Gandhi-Irwin Pact and Bhagat Singh

Key Events and Context

• Bhagat Singh's Execution:

  • Bhagat Singh was executed on March 23, 1931.
  • His execution occurred after the Gandhi-Irwin Pact.
  • Gandhi expressed surprise and disappointment at Singh's execution, questioning Irwin about it.

• Gandhi-Irwin Pact (March 5, 1931):

  • A significant agreement between Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin.
  • It aimed to address the political situation and the release of political prisoners.
  • Gandhi demanded the release of all political prisoners; Irwin agreed but required Gandhi to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement temporarily.

The First Round Table Conference (1930)

• First Conference Details:

  • The First Round Table Conference was convened in England in 1930.
  • Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald organized a lavish welcome.
  • Gandhi was invited but the Congress did not send a representative.

• Consequences of Non-Participation:

  • MacDonald felt embarrassed due to the Congress's absence.
  • Irwin was under pressure as the situation escalated.

The Second Round Table Conference (September 1931)

• Gandhi's Participation:
  • Gandhi attended the second conference.
  • This followed the Gandhi-Irwin Pact where he agreed to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Reactions and Implications

• Impact of Bhagat Singh's Execution:

  • His execution was seen as a major incident that affected public perception of Gandhi and the Congress.
  • Many viewed Gandhi's approach to negotiations as ineffective, especially after Singh's death.

• Public Sentiment:

  • The execution led to increased anger and frustration among the youth and freedom fighters.
  • It highlighted the differences in approach between violent and non-violent resistance.

Gandhi's Dilemma

• Gandhi's Non-Violence Philosophy:

  • Gandhi's belief in non-violence often clashed with the need for decisive action against British rule.
  • His strategy involved negotiation, which some felt compromised the freedom struggle.

• Perception of Gandhi:

  • Gandhi's decisions were increasingly scrutinized post-Singh's execution, leading to a loss of support among radical factions.

Summary

• The lecture discussed the complex dynamics between Gandhi, Irwin, and the execution of Bhagat Singh within the broader context of India's struggle for independence.
• The events surrounding the Round Table Conferences and the Gandhi-Irwin Pact shaped the political landscape and public sentiment towards the independence movement.