During the period from 1858 to 1885, several political associations emerged in Bengal, Bombay, and Madras in India, each playing a significant role in shaping nationalist sentiments and advocating for Indian interests. Here’s a detailed exploration of these associations:
- Bengal:
- Bengal British Indian Association (1851): Founded by Dwarkanath Tagore and other prominent Bengali intellectuals and professionals, the Bengal British Indian Association aimed to promote the political rights and interests of Indians in Bengal. It advocated for representation in legislative councils, administrative reforms, and the protection of Indian industries.
- Indian Association (1876): Established by Surendranath Banerjee and Ananda Mohan Bose, the Indian Association was one of the most influential political organizations in Bengal. It campaigned for Indian representation in legislative councils, civil service examinations, and administrative reforms. The association also addressed social and economic issues affecting Bengali society.
- Bombay:
- Bombay Association (1852): Formed by Jagannath Shankarshet and Dadabhai Naoroji, the Bombay Association aimed to address the grievances of Indians in Bombay (now Mumbai) and advocate for their rights. It played a key role in raising awareness about social, economic, and political issues affecting Indian society. Dadabhai Naoroji’s “Drain of Wealth” theory, which highlighted the economic exploitation of India by the British, gained prominence through the association’s activities.
- Poona Sarvajanik Sabha (1870): Founded by Mahadev Govind Ranade, Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade, and others, the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha was a socio-political organization based in Pune. It focused on social reform, education, and advocating for Indian representation in government. The Sabha played a significant role in raising awareness about social injustices and promoting educational reforms.
- Madras:
- Madras Mahajana Sabha (1884): Established by P. Ananda Charlu and V. Krishnaswamy Iyer, the Madras Mahajana Sabha aimed to address the concerns of Indians in Madras (now Chennai) and promote social and political reforms. It advocated for issues such as the promotion of vernacular languages, Indian representation in legislative councils, and the protection of indigenous industries.
- Madras Native Association (1852): The Madras Native Association was one of the earliest political organizations in Madras Presidency. Founded by S. Ramaswami Mudaliar and others, it advocated for the rights and interests of Indians, including representation in legislative councils, educational reforms, and the promotion of Indian languages and culture.
These political associations in Bengal, Bombay, and Madras played crucial roles in mobilizing public opinion, raising awareness about colonial injustices, and advocating for reforms. They laid the groundwork for the later emergence of the Indian National Congress and the broader nationalist movement in India. Through their efforts, they contributed significantly to the development of political consciousness and the struggle for Indian independence.
