Essay on Quit India Movement (1942)

quit india movement essay 500 words

The Quit India movement or the Revolt of 1942 or ‘August Revolution’ of 1942 was the most popular and powerful mass movement in the series of agitations led by Gandhi in the course of freedom struggle.

By the time this mass movement was planned, the Second World War was going on, the shadows of the Japanese invasion on India were making the sky dark and cloudy.

The efforts of Cripps mission bore no fruit and the prices of essential commodities were soaring high and the day does not appear to be far off for the deliverance from the British imperialism.

Sumit Sarkar writes “The summer of 1942 found Gandhi in a strange and uniquely militant mood, ‘Leave India to God or to anarchy” he repeatedly urged the British – this orderly disciplined anarchy should go, and if as a result there is complete lawlessness I would risk it”.

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These statements made, in May 1942 are indicative of the restlessness of the leader, who ‘promised’ Swaraj within one year and who is eager and anxious to see that his mission of gaining freedom for India is realized soon. Sumit Sarkar aptly observes “though the need for non-violence was always reiterated, Gandhi’s mantra of Do or Die represents the militant mood of Gandhi”.

In the working committee meeting held at Wardha on 14 July, 1942 the Congress first accepted the idea of a struggle. The All India Congress Committee that met in Bombay in August ratified this decision to go in for struggle. In his speech Gandhi made it very clear “I am not going to be satisfied with anything short of complete freedom. May be, he (the Viceroy) will propose the abolition of salt tax, the drink evil. But I will say nothing less than freedom” . Gandhi then followed up with the now famous exhortation Do or Die. “Here is a Mantra, a short one that I give you. You may imprint it on your hearts and let every breath of yours give expression to it. The mantra is Do or Die. We shall either free India or die in the attempt; we shall not live to see the perpetuation of slavery”.

Gandhi also gave a call to all sections of the people, the princes, the Jagirdars, the Zamindars, the propertied and moneyed classes, who derive their wealth and property from the workers in the fields and factories and elsewhere, to whom eventually power and authority belong. In the view of Sumit Sarkar, the above statement of Gandhi indicates his social radicalism and shift in the philosophy of the Congress, by now people with the goals of socialism and communism have become a part of the broad-based Congress organization; On the other hand, the British too were equally determined to crush any movement of the Congress.

The then Viceroy Linlithgow in a letter dated 8 August, 1946 categorically made his mind very clear “I feel very strongly that the only possible answer to a declaration of war by any section of Congress in the present circumstances must be a declared determination to crush the organization as a whole”. Thus, the two sides were ready to act and even before the formal launching of the movement, the government in a single sweep arrested all the top leaders of the Congress in the early hours of August 9, 1942. This led to spontaneous outburst of mass anger against the arrest of leaders. There was mass upsurge all over the country for six or seven weeks after the unexpected event of August 9, 1942.

Bipan Chandra writes, “People devised a variety of ways of expressing their anger in some places, huge crowds attacked police stations, post offices, courts, railway stations and other symbols of government authority. National flags were forcibly hoisted on public buildings in defiance of the police”. Cities, towns and villages witnessed the people’s wrath. Peasants, workers and students actively participated in showing their resentment against the government. By following tactics of brutality, the government suppressed the movement. Gandhi who was arrested in the early hours of 9 August, started fast on 10 February by declaring that the fast would last for 21 days.

One more feature to be noticed in this connection was the refusal of Gandhi to condemn the violence of the masses and held the government responsible for this violence. All over the country people responded positively and actively towards the fast of Gandhi. Gandhi was released on 6 May, 1944 on medical grounds.

It is to be noted that the Quit India movement was the spontaneous participation of the masses compared to the earlier non-cooperation and civil disobedience movements. Bipan Chandra was of the view: “the great significance of this historic movement was that it placed the demand for independence on the immediate agenda of the national movement. After ‘Quit India’ there could be no retreat. Independence was no longer a matter of bargain. And this became amply clear after the war”.

The spirit unleashed was carried further by Indian National Army of Subhas Chandra Bose. An understanding of the process of the struggle for independence of India reveals its long drawn dynamics of the strategy adopted by the leaders of this movement.

While the pre-Gandhian phase was one of creating conscious awareness of the evils of the colonial and imperialist among the masses, the Gandhian phase of ‘struggle-truce-struggle’ was one of sustaining the tempo of the movement through the stages of non-cooperation followed by civil disobedience, followed by the Quit India movement.

Besides Gandhi’s ideology of non-violence and technique of Satyagraha, it was the strategy of struggle-truce-struggle that accelerated and sustained the urge for freedom and enabled India to achieve freedom in 1947. We find a gradual and slow transition from mini-scale minority of freedom seekers to mass organi­zation of freedom seekers during the time of Gandhi, and his most outstanding contribution was the successful strategy of struggle-truce-struggle in stages to sustain the tempo of the movement. Undoubtedly, Gandhi was a great strategist of the 20th century mass political mobilization process motivated by self-reliant rule of the masses through more of non-violent means.

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Quit India Movement - 1942 (Modern Indian History NCERT Notes)

Mumbai’s Gowalia Tank Maidan also known as August Kranti Maidan is the place where the quit India movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi. He along with other leaders gathered here on August 8 and 9, 1942.

The outcome of the movement was that Congress was declared an unlawful association and its offices all over the country were raided. The leaders were arrested and there rose a chaotic moment with this incident.

 This article gives you the Quit India Movement summary, factors responsible for Quit India Movement and other notes relevant for UPSC and other government exams .

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Candidates can also download Quit India Movement notes PDF from the link provided below.

Quit India Movement (UPSC Notes):- Download PDF Here

Aspirants can also read important topics related to Indian Freedom Struggle linked below:

Quit India Movement Facts for UPSC

quit india movement essay 500 words

  • Also known as the India August Movement or August Kranti.
  • It was officially launched by the Indian National Congress (INC) led by Mahatma Gandhi on 8 August 1942. (knowindia.gov.in mentions August 1942 as Quit India Movement month/year.)
  • The movement gave the slogans ‘Quit India’ or ‘Bharat Chodo’. Gandhi gave the slogan to the people – ‘Do or die’.
  • In line with the Congress ideology, it was supposed to be a peaceful non-violent movement aimed at urging the British to grant India independence.
  • The Quit India Resolution was passed by the Congress Working Committee on 8 August 1942 in Bombay. Gandhi was named the movement’s leader.
  • An immediate end to British rule over India.
  • Declaration of the commitment of free India to defend itself against all kinds of imperialism and fascism.
  • Formation of a provisional government of India after British withdrawal.
  • Sanctioning a civil disobedience movement against British rule.
  • Government servants : do not resign your job but proclaim loyalty to the INC.
  • Soldiers : be with the army but refrain from firing on compatriots.
  • Peasants: pay the agreed-upon rent if the landlords/Zamindars are anti-government; if they are pro-government, do not pay the rent.
  • Students: can leave studies if they are confident enough.
  • Princes: support the people and accept the sovereignty of them.
  • People of the princely states: support the ruler only if he is anti-government; declare themselves as part of the Indian nation.

Causes of Quit India Movement – Why was it launched?

  • The Second World War had started in 1939 and Japan, which was part of the Axis Powers that were opposed to the British in the war were gaining onto the north-eastern frontiers of India.
  • The British had abandoned their territories in South-East Asia and had left their population in the lurch. This act did not garner much faith among the Indian population who had doubts about the British ability to defend India against Axis aggression.
  • Gandhi also believed that if the British left India, Japan would not have enough reason to invade India.
  • Apart from hearing news about British setbacks in the war, the war-time difficulties such as high prices of essential commodities fostered resentment against the British government.
  • The failure of the Cripps Mission to guarantee any kind of a constitutional remedy to India’s problems also led to the INC calling for a mass civil disobedience movement.

Read about the allied, axis and central powers from below:

  •   Difference Between Axis and Allied Powers 
  • Difference Between Axis and Central Powers

Response to Quit India Movement

  • The British government responded to the call of Gandhi by arresting all major Congress leaders the very next day. Gandhi, Nehru, Patel, etc. were all arrested. This left the movement in the hands of the younger leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan and Ram Manohar Lohia. New leaders like Aruna Asaf Ali emerged out of the vacuum of leadership.
  • Over 100000 people were arrested in connection with this movement. The government resorted to violence in order to quell the agitation. They were mass floggings and lathi charges. Even women and children were not spared. About 10000 people died in police firing in total.
  • There was no communal violence.
  • The INC was banned. Its leaders were jailed for almost the whole of the war. Gandhi was released on health grounds in 1944.
  • The people responded to Gandhi’s call in a major way. However, in the absence of leadership, there were stray incidences of violence and damage to government property. Many buildings were set on fire, electricity lines were cut and communication and transport lines were broken.
  • Some parties did not support the movement. There was opposition from the Muslim League , the Communist Party of India (the government revoked the ban on the party then) and the Hindu Mahasabha.
  • The League was not in favour of the British leaving India without partitioning the country first. In fact, Jinnah asked more Muslims to enlist in the army to fight the war.
  • The Communist party supported the war waged by the British since they were allied with the Soviet Union.
  • Subhas Chandra Bose, was by this time, organizing the Indian National Army and the Azad Hind government from outside the country.
  • C Rajagopalachari, resigned from the INC since he was not in favour of complete independence.
  • In general, the Indian bureaucracy did not support the Quit India Movement.
  • There were strikes and demonstrations all over the country. Despite the communist group’s lack of support to the movement, workers provided support by not working in the factories.
  • In some places, parallel governments were also set up. Example: Ballia, Tamluk, Satara.
  • The chief areas of the movement were UP Bihar, Maharashtra, Midnapore, and Karnataka. The movement lasted till 1944.

Importance of Quit India Movement – Significance/What it achieved?

  • Despite heavy-handed suppression by the government, the people were unfazed and continued their struggle.
  • Even though the government said that independence could be granted only after the end of the war, the movement drove home the point that India could not be governed without the support of the Indians.
  • The movement placed the demand for complete independence at the top agenda of the freedom movement.
  • Public morale and anti-British sentiment were enhanced.

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Quit India Movement: Essay and Important Facts

The fourth decade of the twentieth century is of utmost importance in the history of India’s struggle for freedom. This was the period of the Second World War (1939 -1945), which shattered the mighty British Empire to its core. During the Second World War, in 1942, the Allied Powers (the Soviet Union, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom) suffered losses in South East Asia. Being a British Colony, India feared the Japanese attack during the war, and hence Britain wanted Indian support in the war for which Britain sent Cripps Mission to India; however, the Cripps Mission failed to pacify Indian leaders. After the failure of the Cripps Mission, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee at the Gowalia Tank Maidan on 8 August 1942; the movement is also known as the August Kranti Movement.

Quit India Resolution

On 14 July 1942, the Congress Working Committee at Wardha adopted a resolution, demanding an end to British rule in India following which a movement called the Quit India Movement started under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. On 8 August 1942, in his Quit India speech at the Gowalia Tank Maidan, Mahatma Gandhi said,

Everyone of you should from this moment onwards consider yourself a free man or women and act as if you are free. I am not going to satisfy with anything short of complete freedom. We shall do or die .We shall either free India or die in the attempt”

While proposing massive civil disobedience, Mahatma Gandhi summoned people from different sections of the society like government servants, soldiers, students, and princes of princely states.

Spread of the movement

On 9 August 1942, all Congress leaders were arrested and taken to some unknown location. The Congress Working Committee, the All India Congress Committee, and the Provincial Congress Committees were declared unlawful associations under the Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1908. Public meetings were strictly prohibited. As the senior leaders were under arrest, the responsibility of spearheading the movement came into the hands of young leaders. Aruna Asif Ali, a relatively unknown figure at that time presided over the Congress Committee session on 9 August 1942.

The arrest of Mahatma Gandhi and others and the underground activity

Mahatma Gandhi and Sarojini Naidu were arrested and kept in Aga Khan Palace in Pune. Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Jayaprakash Narayan were arrested in Patna and kept in Hazaribagh jail, but Jaiprakash Narayan escaped, and he started an underground network. Ram Manohar Lohiya, Jayaprakash Narayan, Aruna Asif Ali, Tushar Mehta, Biju Patnaik, Achyut Patwardhan, Sucheta Kriplani, and RP Goenka were actively involved in these underground activities. Usha Mehta was famous for starting an underground radio in Bombay. The main aim of these underground activities was to keep up the movement alive in the absence of its main leaders.

A newspaper cutting about the arrest of Mahatma Gandhi and others during the Quit India Movement in 1942

Parallel governments across the country

A significant feature of the Quit India Movement was the emergence of parallel governments in some parts of the country. The first such parallel government was set up in Ballia in Eastern UP under Chittu Pandey. He was responsible for the release of many arrested Congress leaders. In Tamluk (Medinipur Bengal), the ‘Jatiya Sarkar’ or Tamluk National Government undertook cyclone relief work, sanctioned grants to schools, and supplied paddy from the rich to the poor. In Satara (Maharashtra), a parallel government called ‘Prati Sarkar’ was organized under the leadership of YB Chavan, Nanaji Patel, etc. Village libraries and Nyayadan Mandals were organized, prohibition campaigns carried out, and ‘Gandhi Marriages’ were organized.

Prati Sarkar, a parallel government in Satara, Maharashtra during the Quit India Movement in 1942

Participation of the masses and the movement gaining momentum

There was wide participation of the people from every section of society. Youth, especially the students of schools and colleges, remained at the forefront. Women, workers, and peasants showed keen interest in participation. Government officials also participated in the movement to some extent. Muslims all across the country helped the movement to gain momentum by providing shelter to the underground leaders, and there was a complete absence of communal clashes during the movement. Contrary to popular sentiments, some organizations did not participate in the movement but rather opposed it. Communists, Muslim League, and Hindu Mahasabha were prominent among these. Many princely states showed a cold response to the movement, and the heads of these princely states were not enthusiastic about the movement.

Participation of masses during the Quit India Movement in 1942

Government’s tactic to suppress the movement

There was heavy repression from the government side. The agitating people were attacked, Lathi charged, and tear-gassed by the police. More than 10,000 people were killed across the country. The military took over many cities. The disobedient villages were fined heavily.

Police teargas demonstrators during the Quit India Movement in 1942

Consequences

Though the government succeeded in suppressing the movement, this movement demonstrated that the Nationalist feeling in the common masses had reached its zenith, and Britishers realized that they would no longer rule India against the wishes of its people. By this time, the immediate agenda of the movement had become ‘complete independence.’ The courage and resistance that the masses showed in this movement were unparalleled. The people wanted to get India free from the shackles of slavery, oppression, and insult. The dawn of freedom was near. In February 1943, Mahatma Gandhi started a fast to condemn the violence that the common people faced during government repression. Meanwhile, the Muslim League demanded a separate state of Pakistan and observed Pakistan Day on 23 March 1943, giving a clear message to the Muslim population that their fate was different from secular India.

Important Facts

  • After the failure of the Cripps Mission in 1942, there was a feeling of frustration among all sections of the people across India.
The presence of British Empire in India is an invitation to Japan to invade.”
  •  In July 1942, a resolution was adopted by the Congress Working Committee, which is generally referred to as the ‘Quit India resolution,’ under which a non-violent movement was started under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. Through individual civil disobedience, organizational revamping, and a consistent propaganda campaign, Mahatma Gandhi was preparing the masses for bigger future agitations against British Raj.
  • On 9th August 1942, the big leaders of the Congress were arrested and taken to an unknown location. Consequently, leadership in the movement was provided by less-known leaders like Aruna Asif Ali.
  • Congress and its associated organizations were declared illegal under the Criminal Law Amendment Act 1908.
  • Many leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan, Aruna Asif Ali, Usha Mehta, etc., went underground and continued disruptive activities to keep the movement alive.
  • An important feature of the Quit India Movement was the formation of parallel governments in many places across India like Ballia, Tamluk, and Satara.
  • There was immense participation in the movement across various activities of society, which included women, youth, workers, government officials, and the Muslim population.
  • Communists, the Muslim League, and the Hindu Mahasabha did not support the movement.
  • The government suppressed the movement with an iron hand, killing more than 10,000 people, and many villages were fined heavily for participating in the movement.
  •  This movement removed fear from the minds of the people against Colonial rule, demanding an end to British rule in India.

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English Summary

Short Essay on Quit India Movement

Table of Contents

Amidst World War-II, on 8 th August 1940, the British Government announced ‘Dominion Status’ to India through its famous ‘August Offer’ which was rejected by the Indians.

The Cripps Mission of 1942 was another step ahead which suggested full ‘Dominion Status’ and also right to part from the British Commonwealth Nations. Thus proposal was rejected by the people of India .

Gandhi, who was not prepared to oppose the Government by a mass upsurge, so far, now changed his mind. He was convinced of the necessity of starting a mass movement again. He raised the slogan of ‘Do or Die’.

Quit India Resolution was passed on August 8, 1942, by the Indian National Congress . The Congress handed over the leadership of the movement entirely in the hands of Gandhi and appealed to the people of India to hold together under the leadership and carried out his instructions as disciplined soldiers of the Indian freedom.

Gandhi regarded the movement as the last struggle for Indian independence. In his speech before the All India Committee, he declared “it was going to be the last struggle of his life to win the freedom of India.”

The government became aware of the movement and prepared itself in advance. All the members of the Congress including Gandhi were arrested before they work. Other leaders were also arrested and people were left leaderless.

REAONS FOR THE QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT

Following were the main causes that led to the Quit India Movement.

  • FAILURE OF THE CRIPPS MISSION :-the failure of the Cripps Mission to solve the constitutional deadlock exposed Britain’s unchanged attitude on constitutional advance and made it clear that any more silence would mean acceptance of the British right to decide the fate of Indians without consulting them.
  • RISING PRICES :-hike in the prices and shortage of rice, salt etc. angered the people of Bengal and Orissa. British failed to calm down the angry people. Hence this also led to the rise of Quit India Movement.
  • REVERSES IN THE SOUTH-EAST ASIA :-the news of defeat suffered by the British in South East Asia and an imminent Collapse made the Indians to believe that the British Government has become so weak that they can drive them away from their country. Moreover the belief in the stability of the government was so low that people started withdrawing their deposits from banks and post offices.
  • RACIAL DISCRIMINATION :-after suffering reverses from South East Asia, left the subjects to their fate. Two roads were provided—Black Road for Indian refugees and White Road exclusively for European refugees. Thus the racist tendencies of the British were exposed. Thus Indians started Quit India Movement against the British rulers .
  • DANGER OF JAPANESE INVASION :-there were the growing threat of Japanese invasion of India . Gandhi wanted to save India from that attack. He feared that if the British lost, Japanese might not take their place.

PHASES OF QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT

Quit India Movement has been popularly divided into three phases:

  • THE FIRST PHASE

The first phase started from the day of arrest of Gandhi. The news of Quit India Movement and Gandhi’s arrest took the people unaware but the reaction was spontaneous.

All the major cities of India which included Bombay (now Mumbai) , Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bangalore, Ahmadabad and the entire nation came to a standstill. Government’s reaction was repressive which began with indiscriminate firing and mass arrest.

  • THE SECOND PHASE

The second phase began from the middle of August when the focus shifted from the centre to the out skirts where the mob began to attack the court buildings. Places like eastern parts of U.P., Bihar, West Bengal , Karnataka, Maharashtra where the mob tried to set up parallel governments though short-lived and unsuccessful.

  • THE THIRD PHASE

The large suppressions executed by the government helped the people to organise the third phase of the movement which entered its longest and most formidable phase.

This was characterised by the youth and was directed against communications and police confrontations, occasionally rising to the level of Guerrilla Warfare.

In Bombay, Poona, Satara, Karnataka and U.P., underground organisations became active. The Government atrocities crossed all the limits but failed to restrict the movement from reaching its climax.

FAILURE OF THE MOVEMENT

The Quit India Movement failed due to several reasons:

  • The Muslim League did not extend its support to the movement.
  • R. Ambedkar, the leader of the depressed class described the movement as ‘irresponsible and act of madness’.
  • D. Sarvarakar, the leader of Hindu Mahasabha directed the Hindus not to participate in the movement.
  • The apathetic attitude of different organisations towards the movement contributed a lot for its failure.
  • As the prominent Congress leaders remained behind the bars, the movement could not receive proper direction.
  • The faithfulness of the British officials also helped a lot for the failure of the movement.

IMPORTANCE OF THE MOVEMENT

The importance of the Quit India Movement can never be undermined. It witnessed nationalistic feelings of the people at the zenith.

  • For the first time, the government was astonished by observing the powerful nationalistic feelings of the Indians added with Anti-British feelings.
  • It convinced the British Government that their days were numbered in India and they had to free the country from their clutch.
  • It hastened the process of India’s march towards freedom.
  • Realising the anti-British feelings of the Indian people, the British Government changed its attitude.
  • The Quit India Movement thus quickened the process of freedom.

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quit india movement essay 500 words

Quit India Movement 1942, Phases, Causes, Impact and Outcomes_1.1

Quit India Movement 1942, Phases, Causes, Impact and Outcomes

Quit India Movement started in year 1942 which was led by Mahatma Gandhi, to get freedom from British Government. Get here Quit India Movement Anniversary 2023 related information.

Quit India Movement

Table of Contents

The Quit India Movement started on August 8, 1942, also known as the August Kranti Movement, calling for the end of British rule in India at the All India Congress Committee’s session in Bombay.

It is an important topic of the UPSC History Syllabus and an important event of the Indian Freedom Struggle for Independence . UPSC aspirants should know the complete details about Quit India Movements for Prelims and Mains. 

Quit India Movement 

  • Quit India Movement is observed annually on August 8, 1942. Quit India Movement Day is a day to remember the sacrifices made by the Indian freedom fighters and people in their fight for independence.
  • At the meeting of the All-India Congress Committee in Mumbai, Mahatma Gandhi demanded the end of British rule and launched the Quit India Movement. In his address at the Gowalia Tank Maidan, now referred to as August Kranti Maidan, Mahatma Gandhi urged listeners to “Do or Die”.
  • The Indian flag was raised at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Mumbai during the Quit India Movement by Aruna Asaf Ali, also referred to as the “ Grand Old Lady ” of the Independence Movement. Yusuf Meherally, a socialist and trade unionist who served as Mayor of Mumbai, is the author of the phrase “Quit India.”

Quit India Movement Causes

  • Failed Cripps mission: Indian leaders reject limited British concessions.
  • Dissatisfaction with British rule: Indians suffered from economic exploitation, discrimination and lack of political representation.
  • Impact of World War II: Indians opposed the decision of the British to include India in the war without consultation.
  • Growing nationalism: Growing nationalist sentiments inspired by leaders like Gandhi and Nehru fueled the demand for independence.
  • Pressure from global movements: The success of anti-colonial movements around the world inspired Indian nationalism.
  • Gandhi’s leadership: Gandhi’s call for non-violent civil disobedience united Indians against British rule.
  • Suppression of civil liberties: British suppression of dissent, including the arrest of leaders, provoked anger and resentment.

Quit India Movement Phases

Quit India Movement Phases are categorised into three phases that are described below in detail. Quit India Movement Day is commemorated every year on 8 August in India.

Quit India Movement of 1942 Impacts

The Quit India Movement of 1942, also known as the August Movement or Bharat Chhodo Andolan, was a civil disobedience movement that was a major turning point in India’s freedom struggle. The movement had many effects, including:

  • New leaders: Aruna Asaf Ali became president of the Indian National Congress, and other new leaders emerged, including Ram Manohar Lohia, JP Narayan, and Usha Mehta.
  • Political changes: Organizations like the Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh, Hindu Mahasabha, and Muslim League gained popularity.
  • Arrests: The government arrested nearly 100,000 people, including women and children, and kept them imprisoned until 1945. The government also declared the INC illegal and banned it.
  • Complete freedom: India gained complete freedom on August 15, 1947.

Quit India Movement Importance

  • The government used harsh repression tactics, but the populace was unmoved and kept up their fight.
  • Even though the government claimed that independence could only be granted when the war ended, the movement emphasized that Indians must be involved in governance for it to work.
  • The movement prioritized calling for total independence as the main goal of the freedom movement. Public spirit and anti-British feelings were raised.
  • Underground activities were carried out by figures who eventually became well-known leaders such as Ram Manohar Lohia, J.P. Narayan, Aruna Asaf Ali, Sucheta Kriplani, and Biju Patnaik.
  • Women participated actively in the movement.
  • Usha Mehta, among other female activists, contributed to the establishment of an underground radio station, which sparked awareness of the movement.
  • The Quit India Movement has strengthened the sense of brotherhood and unity among people.
  • Many high school and college kids dropped out, while lots of adults quit their jobs and took money out of the banks.
  • The costs of World War II led the British to come to the important conclusion that India was unmanageable in the long run, even though the Quit India movement collapsed in 1944 as a result of their insistence that independence could only take place when the war was over and their refusal to grant it immediately.
  • The character of political negotiations with the British was altered, ultimately leading to India’s independence.

Quit India Movement UPSC

The Violence that wasn’t planned happened in certain places during the Quit India movement. The British forcefully put an end to the movement; people were shot, and lathi-charged, villages were set on fire, and huge fines were imposed. To suppress the unrest, the authorities used brutality and detained more than 100,000 individuals.

Many parties and collaborations like the Hindu Mahasabha, the Communist Party of India, and the Muslim League opposed this movement . The movement was also not supported by the Indian bureaucracy. The League opposed the British leaving India without first dividing the nation. Since the British were associated with the Soviet Union, the Communist Party supported them.

The Hindu Mahasabha publicly rejected the Quit India Movement’s appeal and boycotted it out of concern that it would lead to internal unrest and threaten internal security during the war. Subhas Chandra Bose organized the Azad Hind administration and the Indian National Army while operating from outside. Because they opposed Mahatma Gandhi’s concept, many Congress members, including C Rajagopalachari, resigned from the provincial legislature.

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Quit India Movement FAQs

What are the main points of the quit india movement.

An end to British dominion over India right now. A declaration of free India’s determination to fight off all forms of imperialism and fascism. Formation of India’s interim government following the exit of the British. During a movement of civil disobedience against British rule.

Who started Quit India Movement?

 At a meeting of the All-India Congress Committee in Bombay on August 8, 1942, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi announced the start of the “Quit India” movement. The British government detained Gandhi, Nehru, and many other Indian National Congress leaders the following day.

Why did Gandhi launch Quit India Movement?

To get the British to leave India, Mahatma Gandhi started the Quit India movement in 1942. During this agitation, several Indian National Congress (INC) members were detained.

Who gave the Quit India slogan?

The Quit India Movement, also known as the Bharat Chhodo Andolan, was introduced by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942.

Who is the lady leader of the Quit India Movement?

Aruna Asaf Ali was a publisher, political activist, and educator from India. She was an ardent member of the campaign for Indian independence, and she is well-known for raising the Indian National flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Bombay in 1942, during the Quit India Movement.

Who is the hero of the Quit India Movement?

Hero of the Quit India Movement are:

        Mahatma Gandhi         Jawaharlal Nehru         Subhash Chandra Bose         Jaiprakash Narain

When Quit India Movement ended?

The British came to the crucial conclusion that India was ungovernable in the long run as a result of the costs of World War II, even though the Quit India campaign was crushed in 1944 as a result of their refusal to grant immediate independence and instead insisting that it could only happen after the war had ended.

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Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 100, 150, 200, 250 & 300 Words

Struggling under the heavy yoke of colonial rule, the people of India yearned for freedom and dignity. The Quit India Movement was a crucial step in their fight for independence. Launched in 1942, it was a bold call to action, urging the British to leave India once and for all. This movement wasn’t just a political struggle; it was a beacon of hope and unity for millions. As we delve into the heart of this historic uprising, we’ll explore the courage and determination of those who dared to challenge an empire. This journey through the past will not only shed light on the struggles faced by our forefathers but also inspire us to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy today.

Paragraph on Quit India Movement

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Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 100 words

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement, was a crucial part of India’s struggle for independence. Initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942, it was a call for the British to leave India. Gandhi’s powerful slogan, “Do or Die,” inspired millions to participate in non-violent protests and demonstrations across the country. Although the British government responded with harsh measures, detaining thousands and suppressing protests, the movement played a significant role in Indian history. It united people from different backgrounds, fueling the desire for freedom and laying the groundwork for India’s eventual independence in 1947.

Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 150 words

The Quit India Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in August 1942, was a pivotal event in India’s fight for independence from British rule. Gandhi urged Indians to follow a non-violent civil disobedience approach, encapsulated in the powerful slogan “Do or Die,” to demand the British exit from India. The movement saw widespread participation across the country, involving students, workers, and farmers who came together to protest against colonial rule.

Despite the British government’s severe crackdown, including mass arrests and violence, the spirit of the movement could not be quelled. It significantly weakened the British hold on India, showing the world the strength of unified, peaceful resistance. The Quit India Movement not only brought the Indian community closer but also highlighted the resolve and resilience of the Indian people in their quest for independence, marking a critical step towards achieving freedom in 1947.

Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 200 words

The Quit India Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942, marked a turning point in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Amidst the backdrop of World War II, Gandhi launched this mass protest movement with the slogan “Do or Die,” calling for an immediate end to British occupation. This movement galvanized Indians from all walks of life, who engaged in peaceful demonstrations, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience across the nation.

The British government’s response was swift and severe, with thousands of activists arrested, including major leaders of the Indian National Congress, and violent suppressions of protests. Despite these harsh measures, the movement significantly boosted Indian nationalism and unity among its diverse population. It also exposed the British administration’s vulnerability and the impracticality of continuing their rule over an increasingly restive India.

The Quit India Movement’s legacy is its demonstration of the power of mass mobilization and non-violent resistance, which played a crucial role in weakening British resolve and paving the way for India’s independence in 1947. This movement is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Indian people and their relentless pursuit of freedom.

Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 250 words

The Quit India Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942, was a significant uprising against British rule in India. This movement, also known as the August Kranti, marked a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence. It began on August 8, 1942, when Gandhi gave a stirring speech in Mumbai, urging the British to leave India. The slogan “Do or Die” became synonymous with the movement, encapsulating the Indians’ determination to attain freedom at any cost.

The British government responded with severe repression, arresting thousands of leaders and activists, including Gandhi and other prominent Congress members. Despite the leadership vacuum, the movement drew widespread participation across various sections of Indian society, including students, workers, and peasants, who engaged in peaceful protests, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience.

The Quit India Movement faced brutal suppression, yet it significantly weakened the British hold on India, showcasing the Indian people’s resilience and desire for independence. It also set the stage for post-war events that eventually led to India’s independence in 1947. This movement is a testament to the power of non-violent resistance and the indomitable spirit of the Indian people in their fight against colonial rule.

Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 300 words

The Quit India Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942, during World War II, was a critical juncture in India’s long struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Aimed at forcing the British to leave India, Gandhi’s call for immediate independence galvanized the nation with the mantra “Do or Die”, urging every Indian to participate in a non-violent, yet determined fight against the British. This movement was unique because it saw widespread, spontaneous participation from different parts of Indian society, who were united in their desire for freedom.

The British government’s reaction was swift and harsh, with mass arrests and violence used to crush the movement. Key leaders, including Gandhi, Nehru, and many others, were imprisoned, leading to a leaderless mass of Indians who continued the struggle in various innovative ways. Schools and colleges became hubs of resistance, with students boycotting classes and joining protest marches, embodying the movement’s spirit. Despite the absence of formal leadership, the Quit India Movement created significant disruptions for the British administration through acts of sabotage, strikes, and mass protests, highlighting the Indian populace’s resilience and determination.

The importance of the Quit India Movement lies not just in its immediate impact, but in its lasting legacy. It weakened British authority and made it clear that ruling India was no longer feasible in the post-war world. The movement also fostered a sense of unity and national pride among Indians, transcending regional, caste, and religious barriers. It laid the groundwork for India’s eventual independence in 1947, serving as a powerful example of non-violent resistance and the strength of collective action in the face of oppression. The Quit India Movement remains a source of inspiration for people fighting for justice and freedom across the world.

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quit india movement essay 500 words

Quit India Movement (1942) – UPSC Modern History Notes

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement or August Kranti, was a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence. It was a call to action issued by Mahatma Gandhi during the Bombay session of the All-India Congress Committee on August 8, 1942, in Mumbai.

As part of Mahatma Gandhi’s Civil Disobedience Movement, the Quit India Movement aimed to bring an end to British colonial rule in India. Gandhi called upon the Indian people to engage in mass civil disobedience, nonviolent protests, and acts of resistance to demand the British “Quit India” and transfer power to the Indian population.

The movement garnered widespread support from all sections of Indian society and became a significant phase in India’s struggle for independence. However, it also faced harsh repression from the British authorities, leading to mass arrests, violence, and curfews. Despite the challenges and suppression, the Quit India Movement demonstrated the united spirit of the Indian people and their unyielding commitment to achieving freedom and self-governance.

The movement significantly influenced India’s journey towards independence and played a crucial role in the eventual transfer of power to India in 1947. The Quit India Movement remains an essential chapter in India’s history, representing the collective will and determination of its people to break free from colonial rule and establish a sovereign nation.

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement or August Kranti, had its background as follows:

  • Cripps Mission’s Failure: After the failure of the Cripps Mission to gain Indian support for the war effort and address the demands for independence, the Indian National Congress was left disappointed and frustrated.
  • Drafting the ‘Quit India’ Resolution: Following Stafford Cripps’ departure, Mahatma Gandhi drafted a resolution calling for the complete withdrawal of the British from India in the event of a Japanese invasion. The resolution also proposed a nonviolent non-cooperation movement as a means to achieve independence.
  • Acceptance of the Idea of Struggle: The idea of launching a mass nonviolent movement was accepted during the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting held in Wardha on July 14, 1942. The CWC decided to give Gandhi the leadership of this movement.
  • Approval at All India Congress Committee Meeting: The ‘Quit India’ resolution was presented for approval at the All India Congress Committee meeting in Bombay in August. Jawaharlal Nehru proposed the resolution, and Sardar Patel seconded it.
  • Launch of the Movement: Mahatma Gandhi commenced the Quit India movement on August 8, 1942, at the Gowalia Tank Maidan (August Kranti Maidan) in Mumbai. He delivered his iconic “Do or die” speech, urging the people to engage in a peaceful and nonviolent struggle to gain independence.
  • Slogans and Objectives: The movement was characterized by the slogans “Quit India” and “Bharat Chodo” (Quit India in Hindi). The primary objective was to persuade the British to grant India independence based on the principles of peaceful non-cooperation advocated by the Congress.
  • Peaceful Nonviolent Movement: The Quit India Movement was envisioned as a nonviolent mass movement, guided by Gandhian principles of nonviolence and civil disobedience. The Congress doctrine emphasized the use of nonviolent means to achieve political and social change.
  • The Quit India Movement marked a critical phase in India’s struggle for independence, demonstrating the united spirit and determination of the Indian people to secure self-rule and end British colonial rule in the country. It remains a significant milestone in India’s history, inspiring subsequent generations in their quest for freedom and self-determination.

The resolution of the Quit India Movement, ratified on August 8, 1942, at the Congress meeting in Gowalia Tank, Bombay, included the following key points:

  • Immediate End to British Rule: The Quit India Resolution demanded the immediate end of British colonial rule in India. It called for the British to “Quit India” and transfer power to the Indian people.
  • Commitment to Defend Free India: The resolution declared that a free India would be committed to defending itself against all forms of Fascism and imperialism. It emphasized India’s determination to protect its sovereignty and independence.
  • Provisional Government of India: The resolution proposed the formation of a provisional Government of India following the withdrawal of the British. This provisional government would be tasked with governing the country until a permanent government could be established.
  • Civil Disobedience Movement: The Quit India Resolution sanctioned a civil disobedience movement against British rule. It called on the Indian people to engage in nonviolent resistance and mass civil disobedience as a means to press for their demand for independence.
  • The Quit India Movement marked a turning point in India’s struggle for freedom, with the resolution outlining the core objectives and strategies to achieve independence. The movement witnessed widespread participation and a strong display of unity among the Indian population in their quest for self-rule. Despite facing severe repression and arrests by the British authorities, the Quit India Movement strengthened India’s resolve for independence and significantly contributed to the eventual transfer of power from British rule to Indian hands in 1947. The movement remains a symbol of India’s unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance and the pursuit of freedom and sovereignty.

During the Quit India Movement, Mahatma Gandhi provided specific instructions to different groups of people to participate in the nonviolent civil disobedience movement. These instructions were designed to mobilize diverse sections of society in their quest for independence and to assert their support for the Indian National Congress (INC) and the movement’s objectives. The instructions were as follows:

  • Government Employees: Gandhi urged government employees not to resign from their positions but to pledge their allegiance to the Indian National Congress. By remaining in their posts and supporting the INC, they could contribute to the movement from within the government machinery.
  • Soldiers: Gandhi advised soldiers not to use violence against their fellow countrymen, even if they were ordered to do so by their superiors. Instead, he urged them to remain with the army but to refrain from firing on their comrades in the civil disobedience movement.
  • Landlords/Zamindars: For landlords or zamindars who were against the government, Gandhi recommended that they accept the agreed-upon rent from their tenants. However, for those who supported the government, he advised the tenants not to pay the rent as a form of protest.
  • Students: Gandhi offered students the choice to participate in the movement based on their confidence and conviction. If they felt strongly about the cause, he encouraged them to leave their studies and join the civil disobedience movement.
  • Princes: Gandhi called upon the princely rulers to align themselves with the aspirations of the Indian people and embrace the idea of a sovereign India. He urged them to stand behind the people’s demands for independence and self-rule.
  • People of Princely States: For the residents of princely states, Gandhi advised them to support their rulers only if the rulers were anti-government. However, if the rulers aligned with the British government, Gandhi recommended that the people declare themselves as Indian citizens and express their loyalty to the broader movement for independence.
  • These instructions were part of Gandhi’s strategy to engage various segments of society in a united and nonviolent protest against British rule. By providing tailored guidance to different groups, he aimed to harness the collective strength and participation of the Indian population in the Quit India Movement.

The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement or August Kranti, emerged due to several significant reasons and events that fueled discontent and frustration among the Indian population. The main reasons for the Quit India Movement were as follows:

  • Impact of World War II: The outbreak of World War II in 1939 significantly influenced the Indian political landscape. India, as a colony of the British Empire, was dragged into the war without its consent, and the burden of the war effort fell heavily on the Indian people.
  • Japanese Threat in Northeastern Frontiers: Japan, as one of the Axis Powers opposing the British in the war, was gaining ground on India’s northeastern frontiers. The fear of a potential Japanese invasion added to the sense of insecurity among the Indian public.
  • British Abandonment of Southeast Asian Colonies: The British decision to abandon their colonies in Southeast Asia during the war, leaving their people to fend for themselves, created doubts about the British ability to defend India effectively.
  • Gandhi’s Belief in Nonviolent Defense: Mahatma Gandhi believed that if the British left India peacefully, Japan would have no reason to invade the country. He saw the Quit India Movement as a means to press for a peaceful British withdrawal.
  • Public Animosity towards British Government: The Indian public’s animosity towards the British government grew due to reports of British military defeats in the war and the resulting hardships, including high prices for essential goods.
  • Failure of Cripps Mission: The Cripps Mission, which aimed to gain Indian support for the war effort, failed to provide a satisfactory constitutional solution to India’s challenges and demands for independence. This failure further fueled the discontent and frustration among Indian nationalists.
  • In response to these factors, the Indian National Congress called for a major civil disobedience movement, the Quit India Movement, in August 1942. The movement sought to demand the immediate end of British colonial rule in India and bring about self-rule and independence through nonviolent mass protests and civil disobedience. Despite facing severe repression and arrests by the British authorities, the Quit India Movement demonstrated the united and determined spirit of the Indian people in their pursuit of freedom and sovereignty. It remains a significant chapter in India’s struggle for independence and a testament to the power of nonviolent resistance in shaping the course of history.

The Quit India Movement can be divided into three distinct phases, each marked by different types of activities and strategies employed by the participants:

Table of Contents

The First Phase (Rampage by Public):

  • In this phase, the general public engaged in acts of defiance against British authority symbols.
  • Public buildings were targeted, and national flags were forcibly hoisted on them as a symbol of defiance.
  • Satyagrahis willingly surrendered to arrest as a form of protest.
  • Acts of sabotage were carried out, such as blowing up bridges, removing railway tracks, and severing telegraph lines.
  • The eastern United Provinces and Bihar were the regions where such activities were most prevalent.
  • Students participated by going on strikes in schools and colleges, organizing processions, writing and distributing illegal news sheets (Patrika), and serving as couriers for underground networks.
  • Workers in cities like Ahmedabad, Bombay, Jamshedpur, Ahmednagar, and Poona went on strike to support the movement.

The Second Phase (Underground Activities):

  • In this phase, many nationalists went underground and engaged in subversive activities against British rule.
  • Various groups and individuals, including socialists, members of the Forward Bloc, Gandhi ashramites, revolutionary nationalists, and local organizations from different regions, participated in underground activities.
  • Key figures involved in underground activity included Rammanohar Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Aruna Asaf Ali, Usha Mehta, Biju Patnaik, Chhotubhai Puranik, Achyut Patwardhan, Sucheta Kripalani, and R.P. Goenka.
  • Usha Mehta founded an underground radio station in Bombay to maintain communication and morale.
  • The focus of this phase was to maintain a line of command, distribute arms and ammunition, and provide guidance to the participants.

The Third Phase (Parallel Governments):

  • In this phase, parallel governments were established in certain regions as a form of defiance against British rule.
  • Notable instances of parallel governments were seen in places like Ballia, Tamluk (Midnapore), and Satara.
  • These parallel governments aimed to carry out administrative functions, provide relief, and organize various campaigns at the local level.
  • Leaders like Chittu Pandey, Y.B. Chavan, Nana Patil, and others played crucial roles in establishing and running these parallel governments.
  • Various sections of society, including businessmen, students, villagers, pilots, train drivers, and even government officials, provided active assistance to the movement by offering donations, shelter, and material assistance, passing on secret information to activists, and supporting various campaigns.
  • These three phases of the Quit India Movement highlight the diverse and persistent efforts made by the Indian people to challenge British rule and assert their demand for independence through different forms of protest, underground activities, and the establishment of parallel governance structures. The movement remains a significant chapter in India’s struggle for freedom and independence.

The Quit India Movement had a profound impact on India’s struggle for independence and the course of the freedom movement. Here are some of the key impacts of the Quit India Movement:

  • Arrest and Detention of Congress Leaders: Following Mahatma Gandhi’s demand, the British administration arrested all prominent Congress leaders, including Gandhi, Nehru, and Patel, which led to a leadership vacuum in the movement. Newer leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan and Ram Manohar Lohia stepped up to take over the movement.
  • The Emergence of New Leaders: With the arrest of senior leaders, newer leaders like Aruna Asaf Ali emerged and played significant roles in leading the movement and maintaining its momentum.
  • Mass Detentions and Violence: The British authorities responded to the movement with mass detentions and violent repression. Almost 100,000 people were detained, and violence, including mass floggings and lathi charges, was used to suppress the unrest.
  • Declaring INC Illegal: The Indian National Congress (INC) was declared illegal, and its leaders were imprisoned for most of the war. Gandhi was released in 1944 due to ill health.
  • Support and Opposition: The movement received widespread support from the Indian public, leading to strikes, demonstrations, and disruptions of government structures and transportation links. However, there were isolated incidents of violence and opposition from parties like the Muslim League, the Communist Party of India, and the Hindu Mahasabha.
  • Influence of Subhas Chandra Bose: From outside India, Subhas Chandra Bose organized the Indian National Army and the Azad Hind government, which also played a role in India’s freedom struggle.
  • Impact on Indian Bureaucracy: The Indian bureaucracy, in general, opposed the Quit India Movement, causing disruptions in administrative functions during the period of unrest.
  • Geographical Focus: The movement’s main focus areas were Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Midnapore, and Karnataka. The uprising continued until 1944, showing its prolonged impact.
  • Long-Term Influence: The Quit India Movement significantly boosted the spirit of the Indian people in their quest for independence and demonstrated their unity and resolve in the face of British repression. It further weakened the British hold on India and hastened the process of India’s eventual independence in 1947.
  • Overall, the Quit India Movement marked a critical phase in India’s struggle for freedom and played a pivotal role in shaping the events that led to the end of British colonial rule in India. Its legacy continues to inspire the nation’s commitment to democracy, nonviolence, and the pursuit of social justice.

The Quit India Movement holds immense significance in India’s struggle for independence and had a profound impact on the course of the freedom movement. Here are some of the key aspects that highlight the significance of the Quit India Movement:

  • Mass Participation: The Quit India Movement saw widespread participation from people from all walks of life, including students, workers, peasants, and various sections of society. This demonstrated the deep-rooted and widespread support for the nationalist cause and showcased the unity and determination of the Indian people in their quest for freedom.
  • Leadership from the People: The movement continued despite the absence of prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and others, who were imprisoned when it began. The fact that the movement sustained itself and saw leadership emerging from the masses indicated the maturity and resilience of the Indian public in leading their own struggle for independence.
  • Challenging British Authority: The Quit India Movement dealt a significant blow to British authority in India. It showcased that ruling India without the consent and cooperation of the Indian people was no longer feasible for the British. The movement highlighted the extent to which nationalism had progressed and the growing demand for self-rule.
  • Spontaneity and Initiative: The movement displayed a level of spontaneity and popular initiative that was higher than before in India’s freedom struggle. While certain guidelines were issued by the Congress leadership, the movement largely gained momentum through the spontaneous actions of the masses, indicating a deep-rooted desire for independence.
  • Pressure on the British Empire: The widespread uprising among the Indian masses compelled the British authorities to seriously consider the issue of Indian independence. It changed the nature of political negotiations between India and the British Empire, paving the way for the eventual grant of independence to India in 1947.
  • Immediate Agenda for Independence: The Quit India Movement put the demand for complete independence on the immediate agenda of the national movement. It emphasized that there could be no turning back after the movement, and the pursuit of freedom became the central focus of the nationalist struggle.
  • Legacy of Nonviolent Resistance: The Quit India Movement further strengthened the legacy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience as powerful tools for achieving political objectives. It highlighted the potency of nonviolence in mobilizing the masses and challenging oppressive regimes.
  • In summary, the Quit India Movement marked a turning point in India’s struggle for independence. It demonstrated the unwavering determination and unity of the Indian people in their quest for self-rule and played a pivotal role in hastening India’s journey toward becoming an independent nation. The movement’s impact and legacy continue to resonate in India’s history and serve as an inspiration for nonviolent resistance and the pursuit of freedom and democracy.
  • The Quit India Movement marked a defining moment in India’s struggle for independence, setting the stage for the future of Indian politics and shaping the nation’s journey towards self-rule. The movement’s significance lies in the fact that it truly belonged to the people – “We the People” – who ardently fought for India’s freedom and sovereignty. The ordinary citizens demonstrated unparalleled heroism and determination, facing the harshest repression from the British authorities and standing firm against adverse circumstances.
  • The Quit India Movement showcased the depth of the Indian people’s commitment to the cause of independence. It revealed unity and solidarity among diverse sections of society, with students, workers, peasants, and people from all walks of life actively participating in the struggle. The movement’s sustained momentum, even in the absence of prominent leaders, demonstrated the emergence of a new era where leadership and initiative arose organically from the masses themselves.
  • Despite facing severe repression, mass arrests, and violence from the British, the people’s resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity sent a powerful message to the world. The movement highlighted the efficacy of nonviolent resistance as a formidable tool for challenging the colonial rule and shaping the future of nations.
  • The Quit India Movement’s impact extended beyond the immediate period of unrest. It paved the way for India’s eventual independence and prompted the British authorities to seriously consider India’s demand for self-rule. The movement left a lasting legacy of people’s empowerment, inspiring future generations to continue the struggle for justice, equality, and democratic values.
  • As India gained its independence in 1947, the Quit India Movement’s significance remained embedded in the nation’s collective memory, reminding the people of the sacrifices made and the indomitable spirit of the freedom fighters. It continues to serve as a symbol of courage, unity, and the power of people-led movements in shaping the course of history.
  • The Quit India Movement’s enduring impact reverberates through India’s political landscape, as it continues to inspire the pursuit of justice, freedom, and the preservation of democratic principles. As the nation progresses, it remains rooted in the spirit of the Quit India Movement – a testament to the unwavering commitment of “We the People” towards building a just, inclusive, and independent India.

Q: What was the Quit India Movement?

A: The Quit India Movement was a significant civil disobedience movement launched by the Indian National Congress (INC) under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942, during World War II.

Q: What were the main objectives of the Quit India Movement?

A: The primary objective of the Quit India Movement was to demand an end to British rule in India. It aimed to achieve complete independence, urging the British to “Quit India.”

Q: What were the major tactics employed during the Quit India Movement?

A: The Quit India Movement employed non-violent tactics such as strikes, demonstrations, and civil disobedience. The movement aimed to paralyze British administration and establish a nationwide uprising against colonial rule.

Q: What were the consequences of the Quit India Movement?

A: The Quit India Movement led to widespread mass arrests of Indian leaders and activists, including Mahatma Gandhi. The British government responded with severe repression, leading to violent clashes between protesters and authorities. However, the movement played a crucial role in mobilizing Indian public opinion against British colonialism.

Q: How did the Quit India Movement contribute to India’s independence?

A: The Quit India Movement galvanized the Indian masses and intensified the demand for independence. It demonstrated the resolve and unity of the Indian people in their struggle against British rule, ultimately contributing significantly to India gaining independence in 1947.

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GS-I: Modern History

Prelims : History of India and Indian National Movement.

Mains : Modern Indian History from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues.

Quit India Movement was a massive anti-colonial struggle in India, launched on August 8, 1942 , under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, who gave the mantra of “Do or Die” during this Movement. Projected initially as the civil disobedience movement, this ‘third great wave’ of India’s struggle for freedom soon took a violent turn with the aim of ‘fight to the finish’ of the colonial empire. Gandhi, understanding the mood of the nation and the importance of individual liberties, was even prepared for riots and violence caused by the Quit India Movement as he thought it morally correct to defend against the state’s organised violence.

Also known as the “ August Kranti Movement,” Quit India Movement was more a rejection of British rule than a traditional Satyagraha and also influenced the unprecedented and tumultuous events for the next five years in Indian history.

quit india movement essay 500 words

Causes of Quit India Movement

The Quit India Movement was the culmination of years of Indian disillusionment with British rule, with the immediate causes being the failure of Cripps mission , hardships caused during World War II and the Japanese knocking at the doors of Indian borders. Some of the major causes of the Quit India Movement are as follows:

  • The Indian people had grown increasingly disillusioned with the British government's failure to fulfil its promises regarding India's self-rule.
  • The British, although they gained Indian support in World War II, did not want to transfer the power easily.
  • The August offer and Cripps mission failed to satisfy the demands of the nationalists.
  • Further, the British support to the demand of Pakistan by the Muslim League was making the Indian nationalists (particularly Gandhi) infuriated.
  • By 1942, India's struggle for independence had been ongoing for several decades. The nationalistic sentiments were at its peak, and people grew increasingly impatient with British rule.
  • The extent and activities of the people during the Quit India Movement also reflect this sentiment.
  • They had participated wholeheartedly in the Individual Satyagraha movements of 1940. Further, along with the Kisan Sabha movements, it had prepared the ground for the final battle against the imperialist forces.
  • They already had tasted the sweetness of self-rule through the Congress rule in the period of 1937-39.
  • Therefore, now the people wanted to drive out the British from India.
  • India's participation in World War II placed significant economic burdens and restrictions on the country.
  • The war effort led to rising prices, shortages of essential goods, and increased taxation, causing immense hardships for the Indian population.
  • The shortage of supply of essential goods and the export of rice caused large-scale deprivation and death, ultimately resulting in the Bengal Famine of 1943.
  • Reverses suffered by the British in Southeast Asia and the advancement of Japanese troops towards the borders of India increased the popular discontent among the people.
  • The retreat of the British troops from Burma further enhanced this fear.
  • The British attitude towards Indian subjects also exposed the racial discrimination policy of the British.
  • Indians thought they were on their own. Thus there was the utmost need of a nationalist government to defend its borders.
  • And in this situation, the failure of the Cripps Mission led Gandhi and Congress to launch the final strike against the British.

The Quit India Movement was the culmination of years of Indian disillusionment with British rule, with the immediate causes being the failure of Cripps mission, hardships caused during World War II and the Japanese knocking at the doors of Indian borders. Some of the major causes of the Quit India Movement are as follows:

Launch of the Quit India Movement

Congress Working Committee of the Indian National Congress met at Wardha on July 14, 1942, and decided to launch a mass civil disobedience movement under the leadership of Gandhi.

  • Formal launch: The All India Congress Committee met at Gowalia Tank, Bombay, on 8 August 1942 and passed the famous Quit India Resolution. Gandhi sloganed his 'Do or Die' call on the same day.
  • Demands: It demanded an end to British rule in India with immediate effect, the formation of a provisional government after the war and the declaration of free India.
  • Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned in Poona.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru, Abul Kalam Azad, and other leaders were imprisoned in the Ahmednagar Fort.

Nature of the Quit India Movement

Although the Movement was initially started as a civil disobedience movement, it differed from other movements launched by Gandhi.

  • Different from earlier movements:
  • The NCM of 1920-22 and the CDM of 1930-34 were conceived as the peaceful resistance to British rule, and the social base expanded slowly to accommodate wider participation of people.
  • On the contrary, the Quit India Movement was a massive uprising from the very beginning to compel the British to quit India.
  • The British’ attitude towards Indians and their endorsement to Jinnah’s communal polity frustrated Gandhi.
  • Knowing the mood of the Indians, especially in the limited but symbolic Individual Satyagrahas, he even believed that the masses could adopt a violent path in self-defence against a well-equipped and strong aggressor. It was reflected in his article in ‘the Harijan’ in March 1942.
  • He opined that every individual must consider himself free and should act for himself to attain freedom.
  • Thus, he was more concerned for the ends (freedom) than the means (methods). 
  • Clear goal and objectives: The 1942 Movement’s goal was less ambiguous in its objectives as it was launched to make the complete withdrawal of the British from India. It has four main features:
  • Accommodative of violence against the state,
  • Aimed at destroying the British rule involving anybody believing in complete independence instead of trained satyagrahis,
  • Students were called to play the major role and should lead the Movement after the arrest of senior Congress leaders and
  • Total defiance of government authority.
  • Once the main leaders were arrested on 9 August, the Movement took a radical turn, often cited as the most ‘un-Gandhian’ method of the freedom movement. 
  • As Gandhi had already sanctioned violence and the role of younger generations, the movement developed at the grassroots level.
  • Purpose: The purpose of such underground activities was to maintain popular morale, establish a line of command, provide guidance, and distribute arms and ammunition.
  • Key personalities: Rammanohar Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan, Aruna Asaf Ali, Usha Mehta, Biju Patnaik, Chhotubhai Puranik, Achyut Patwardhan, Sucheta Kripalani, and R.P. Goenka. Usha Mehta established an underground radio station in Bombay.
  • Parallel governments: The movement also saw the emergence of parallel governments in certain parts of India.

Spread of the Quit India Movement

Quit India Movement had two phases: themass movement phase (August to September 1942), and the quasi-guerrilla insurgency phase (afterwards). The people started burning and destroying anything that symbolised British authority, such as post offices, police stations, government buildings, Railways and telegraph lines. The scale of participation in Bihar and eastern UP was unparalleled.

Regional Participation in the Quit India Movement

  • Students, peasants, and workers were actively involved in the Quit India Movement. The underground activities were strong there, which practically broke the law and order. 
  • Severe organisations and dacoit gangs were active, having links with Jayprakash Narayan and other members of the Congress Socialist Party.
  • JP Narayan and Rammanohar Lohia formed a parallel government based on the Nepal border till 1944.
  • The socialist group Azad Dastas carried out underground activities in Bihar.
  • Armed villagers targeted police posts and local courts and engaged in looting.
  • There were strikes in Kanpur, Lucknow and Nagpur and violent clashes with striking millworkers in Delhi.
  • The Quit India Movement primarily occurred in towns and cities , where protests, acts of sabotage, and damage to essential services took place.
  •  In many parts of Bengal, the worker, tribal and peasant movements picked up momentum by linking up with the Quit India movement.
  • In districts such as East Khandesh, Satara, Broach, and Surat large numbers of peasants took part in guerrilla-style attacks on government property, lines of communication, and people known to be sympathetic to British rule.
  • In Gujarat, a parallel government called the "Azad Government" was established in Ahmedabad, replicating the existing administrative structure.
  • Bombay was inspired by inciting underground publications such as the Bombay Provincial Bulletin, Do or Die News-sheet, Free India, War of India Bulletin, Free State of India Gazette and the Congress Gazette.
  • South India: K.T. Bhashyam, a Bangalore-based Congress leader who was active in trade unions and organised strikes.

Social Base

  • Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh witnessed the unprecedented participation of the students.
  • Militant students of Patna and Benares played a significant role in this movement.
  • Peasants: The extent of the peasants’ participation was limited as the Quit India Movement was focused more on nationalism than anything else. Still, in Bihar and Eastern UP, they were more active.
  • Tribals: In Bengal and Orissa, they participated in the struggle.
  • Government officials: Government employees, particularly those from lower ranks of the police and administration, took part, which decreased people's devotion to the government. Some government officials , including police, passed on secret information to the activists.
  • Women: Women's participation was remarkable during the Quit India Movement. They actively took part in protests, strikes, and demonstrations and played a significant role in organising and mobilising local communities.

Limitations of the Quit India Movement

While the Quit India Movement played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence, it also had several limitations that affected its overall impact:

  • Failed to meet its objectives: The movement did not immediately lead to freedom , and it took more years of struggle and negotiations before independence was achieved.
  • Lack of central leadership: The lack of central leadership hindered effective coordination and decision-making, leading to confusion and fragmentation within the movement.
  • Muslim League, Communist Party of India, and Hindu Mahasabha were against the Movement.
  • Bureaucracy was also against the Movement.
  • B. R. Ambedkar and Periyar were also against the Movement.
  • Communal divide:
  • Muslim participation in the movement was even lower than the CDM. Jinnah appealed to Muslims to join the armed forces.
  • Muslim League used this time period to mobilise masses that helped it in the next elections of 1945-46, which strengthened its demand of a separate state, ultimately resulting in the Partition .
  • Further, there were some areas of communal violence during the Movement.
  • Neglected by historians:
  • This is due to the absence of the major political parties and the leaders playing the central role in the Quit India Movement.

Significance of the Quit India Movement

The Quit India Movement was active until 1944 when the British ruthlessly crushed it. Although it failed to oust the British from India, which was its objective, the Movement was a significant phase of India’s quest for self-rule.

  • In terms of spirit and enthusiasm, this Movement beat all the other earlier movements.
  • NCM was urban-based, and CDM was wider, but the QIM was the most violent and radical, supported mainly by the poor and labour class, the hardest hit by wartime inflation.
  • Despite the lack of central leadership, the role played by the younger generations, peasants, tribals, and women was unparalleled.
  • The mass participation, especially in some parts of India, was unprecedented.
  • It was a movement of the subaltern classes of India with a bottom-up approach from the grassroots level.
  • The movement witnessed the central role played by the Congress Socialist Party’s leaders, such as  JP Narayan and Ram Manohar Lohia.
  • Further, it also gave birth to some young generation leaders, like Aruna Asaf Ali. 
  • The way for independence: Although it did not immediately achieve its goals, it contributed to the weakening of British rule and set the tone for future protests such as during the INA Trials.

PYQs on Quit India Movement

Q)  With reference to 8th August 1942 in Indian history, which one of the following statements is correct? (UPSC Prelims 2021)

a) The Quit India Resolution was adopted by the AICC.

b) The Viceroy’s Executive Council was expanded to include more Indians.

c) The Congress ministries resigned in seven provinces.

d) Cripps proposed an Indian Union with full Dominion status once the Second World War was over.

Answer: (a)

Q)  With reference to Indian freedom struggle, consider the following events: (UPSC Prelims 2017)

  • Mutiny in Royal Indian Navy
  • Quit India Movement launched
  • Second Round Table Conference

What is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?

a) 1 – 2– 3

b) 2 – 1 – 3

c) 3 – 2 – 1

d) 3 – 1 – 2

Answer: (c)

Q)  Quit India Movement was launched in response to (UPSC Prelims 2013)

a) Cabinet Mission Plan

b) Cripps Proposals

c) Simon Commission Report

d) Wavell Plan

Answer: (b)

FAQs on the Quit India Movement

What was the reason for launching the quit india movement.

The failure of the Cripps Mission was the immediate cause of the Quit India movement . The INC did not provide unconditional support to the British during World War II, as the British assumed. Among the Indian masses, the sense of nationalism and self-rule had grown in popularity.

Who launched the Quit India Movement?

On 8 August 1942, at the All-India Congress Committee session in Bombay, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi launched the 'Quit India movement’. The next day, Gandhi, Nehru and many other leaders of the Indian National Congress were arrested by the British Government.

What was the Quit India Movement's slogan?

The slogan of the Quit India Movement was "Do or Die." This slogan reflected the Indian people's determination to achieve independence from British rule at any cost. As a result, the movement is regarded as a pivotal event in India's struggle for independence from oppressive British rule.

Who was known as the Queen of Quit India Movement?

The prominent female leader known as the "Queen of the Quit India Movement" was Aruna Asaf Ali. She played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and was an influential figure during the Quit India Movement of 1942.

What is the role of Rani Gaidinliu in the Quit India Movement?

Rani Gaidinliu established the Naga Raj movement and rallied support from various Naga tribes to resist British control during the Quit India Movement. In 1944, Rani Gaidinliu was arrested by the British authorities and sentenced to life imprisonment for her involvement in the independence movement. She was released in 1947 following India's independence.

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Essay on Quit India Movement (900 Words)

January 4, 2018 by Study Mentor Leave a Comment

One of the major milestones in the freedom struggle of our nation was the Quit India movement had lasted from the year of 1942 till 1945, when it tended to tone down gradually during various widespread factors.

Launched by the father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi , this movement saw public participation like none other movement which had taken place in our country till that point of time. The entire nation of India echoed with the cries of “Karenge ya Marenge”, which translates to “Do or Die”.

As the last large-scale movement before India was granted independence from the British, this movement surely served as an important stepping stone to that success, as well as acted as a catalyst for the same.

In this essay, we shall briefly examine the causes and consequences of this movement, and simultaneously try to trace the major events which happened under its ambit.

Table of Contents

Causes behind Quit India Movement

Several important events which had been happening in the late 1930’s had already ignited the initial sparks for a nationwide movement. The most important of these events were the Cripps Mission .

It was a mission which was sent to India in the year of 1942, and was headed by Sir Stafford Cripps, along with two other members.

The aim of it was to receive complete support and cooperation of the Indian’s in the Second World War, which the Indian leaders were sceptical to offer earlier. In exchange for the same, the mission guaranteed self-governmental rights to Indian citizens immediately after the termination of the said war.

However, the Cripps Mission was a major failure, and it further aggravated the Indians who were already discontent with the British action in the country and also regarding the issue about India’s participation in the world war.

Other factors were the constant and hostile resistance offered by the Muslim League , headed by Mohammed Ali Jinnah , to the workings of the mainstream political upheavals taking place in India, mainly dominated by the Indian National Congress.

The Day of Deliverance, as declared by the Muslim League, had taken place on the 22 nd of October, 1939, and was especially disastrous.

Simultaneously, the demand for India’s independence was becoming more prominent outside India as well, owing to the change of parties in the British Parliament, as well as certain revolutionary activities which were being conducted outside the nation at that time by Subhash Chandra Bose and others.

The immediate reason for the movement to be launched was the complete rejection by the British government of the eleven points put forward by Gandhi. The movement began from the call for complete civil disobedience made at the Wardha Conference of Congress, on 14 th of July, 1942.

Although this decision did not get the complete support from all the Congress leaders, it was still decided to be executed, and so began the Quit Indian Movement, from the 8 th of August, 1942.

Major events

Just after the launch of this movement, all the important Congress leaders were immediately arrested by the police. It was a very calculated move by the British and was aimed at depriving the movement of any strong leadership. It must be mentioned here that this move did succeed, the youth of the country soon took things in their hands and led the movement from the front.

In areas all over the India, local uprising went out of control. Such areas include Satara in Maharashtra, Tamluk in West Bengal, and Talcher in Odisha. In several parts, parallel government was set up.

One of the most important leaders of this movement was Khan Abdul Gafar Khan (Bacha Khan) from the north-west frontier provinces. He was also called the Frontier Gandhi. Other leaders included Jayaprakash Narayan , Usha Mehta , Rashbehari Bose , Matangini Hazra , and many more.

The women participation in this movement was indeed noteworthy. Chittu Pande was another Gandhian leader who helped in the setting up of a parallel government in Balia, Uttar Pradesh. The insurgences in Balia continued to become quite violent.

Several nationalist radio stations were set up within and outside India as well. It is also interesting to note that the slogan ‘Quit India’ was not coined by Gandhi himself, which seems to be the popular belief.

It was actually coined by the socialist Congress leader named Yusuf Meherally . Subhash Chandra Bose  set up the Azad Hind Fauj, or the INA (Indian national army) to aid India’s freedom struggle. However, his ideas of struggle were never properly materialised, because of his astonishing disappearance after boarding a flight.

Opposition to the movement

The movement was opposed by parties such as the Muslim League and the Hindu Mahasabha, as well as the princely states and some prominent Congress leaders as well. The Communist Party of India also opposed the movement, mainly owing to global reasons.

The Muslim league opposed the movement due the apprehension of Hindu dominance over other religions if the British had left India in its current state.

Reasons for the decline of the movement

The main reason for the decline of the movement was the violent turn it had taken, as it fundamentally went against the Gandhian principle of nonviolence. Therefore, the course of the movement did not adhere to its initial plan, which was one of its major shortcoming’s.

Other than this, the movement also lacked a strong central leadership as most of the leaders were already in jail. Also, the British police adopted very extreme measures to deal with the insurgents, which also repressed the movement to some extent.

However, this movement made the British realise that the Indian could not be suppressed for a very long time anymore and there was an urgent need for the grating of Indian independence.

This movement was also brought into global attention by the media and therefore, there was a considerable amount of pressure on the British government from other influential nations as well to grant the same.

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Quit India movement was a revolution in itself in the long process of India’s national movement. Comment on the nature of the Quit India movement.

Topic:   Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues;

1. Quit India movement was a revolution in itself in the long process of India’s national movement. Comment on the nature of the Quit India movement. (250 words)

Reference: India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra.

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1. Key Demand of the question: To wrote about the nature of Quit India movement and how it radically differed from other movements making it the August revolution. Directive: Comment – here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon. Structure of the answer: Introduction: Write about the start of the quit India movement which led to what some historians term as ‘August Revolution’ Body: Begin the body by mentioning the fiery speech by Mahatma Gandhi and his calls to various sections of the population and the leadership. In the next part, mention the unprecedented features that were seen as the part of the movement in terms of participation of the masses, the repression by the governments, the emergency of new leadership, parallel governments, violence witnessed, new innovative and secretive form of organization and arson caused which made Quit India movement a revolution in itself. Conclusion: Highlight the overall importance of the Quit India Movement which got India to the cusp of freedom.

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quit india movement essay 500 words

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Essay on Quit India Movement

Essay on Quit India Movement

Mahatma Gandhi started the Quit India movement at Mumbai's Gowalia Tank Maidan, also called August Kranti Maidan. On August 8 and 9, 1942, he and other commanders assembled in this location. As a result of the effort, Congress' offices nationwide were searched and it was deemed an illegal group. The leaders were taken into custody, and this incident caused a chaotic situation.

The most well-known and effective mass movement in the series of agitations organised by Gandhi during the war for freedom was the movement to leave India, also known as the Revolt of 1942 or the "August Revolution" of 1942.  The Second World War had already begun when this massive migration was organised, and the sky was already dark and overcast due to the Japanese invasion of India.

The Cripps Mission's efforts were in vain, and prices for necessities were skyrocketing. However, the day of liberation from British imperialism does not seem far off. Gandhi frequently encouraged the British to "Leave India to God or to anarchy" and said, "This orderly disciplined anarchy should go, and if as a result there is complete lawlessness I would risk it." According to Sumit Sarkar, “The summer of 1942 found Gandhi in a strange and uniquely militant mood.”The man who 'promised' Swaraj within a year is restless and keen to see that his aim of securing freedom for India is quickly realised, as seen by his words made in May 1942. Though the need for non-violence was constantly emphasised, Gandhi's motto of "Do or Die" best captures his combative demeanour, as Sumit Sarkar notes.

Quit India Movement3

The Congress initially agreed to a fight when the working committee met at Wardha on July 14, 1942. This decision to enter the conflict was approved by the All India Congress Committee at its meeting in Bombay in August. Gandhi made it quite clear in his address that he would not settle for anything less than total freedom. It's possible that the Viceroy will suggest eliminating the salt tax and drink evil. But I'll say it's freedom or nothing. Gandhi then gave his now-famous call to action, "Do or Die." "I give you this Mantra, which is a brief one. You can let it get ingrained in your souls and be expressed through every breath you take. Do or Die is the credo. We won't live to witness the continuation of slavery; we must either free India or perish trying.

Gandhi also issued a call to action to all groups of people, including the princes, Jagirdars, and Zamindars, as well as the wealthy and affluent classes, who draw their income and possessions from the workers in the fields, industries, and other places, to whom power and authority ultimately belong. Sumit Sarkar believes that Gandhi's aforementioned statement demonstrates his social radicalism and shift in the Congress's philosophical outlook. At this point, supporters of socialism and communism have joined the broad-based Congress organisation, and the British were equally determined to put an end to any movement of the Congress.

In a letter dated 8 August 1946, the then Viceroy Linlithgow made it very clear that he had made up his mind: "I feel very strongly that, in the present circumstances, the only possible response to a declaration of war by any section of Congress must be a declared determination to crush the organisation as a whole." Since both sides were prepared to act, the government detained all of the Congress' leading officials in a single sweep in the early hours of August 9, 1942, even before the movement had officially begun. Mass rage against the arrest of leaders erupted as a result of this. Following the unforeseen incident of August 9, 1942, there was a widespread upswing that lasted for six or seven weeks across the nation.

Quit India Movement2

In certain locations, large crowds attacked police stations, post offices, courts, train stations, and other symbols of governmental authority, according to Bipan Chandra's writing. In defiance of the police, national flags were forcibly flown on public buildings. Cities, towns, and villages everywhere saw the anger of the populace. Peasants, labourers, and students all took part in the demonstrations to express their anger at the administration. The authorities repressed the movement by employing severe methods. Gandhi, who was taken into custody in the wee hours of August 9th, announced on February 10th that he would begin a 21-day fast.

Gandhi's failure to denounce the mass violence and hold the administration accountable for it is another aspect that should be noted in this context. People around the nation gave the Gandhi fast an enthusiastic and energetic response. On May 6, 1944, Gandhi was discharged for medical reasons. It should be highlighted that, in contrast to prior non-cooperation and civil disobedience activities, the Quit India movement saw the spontaneous participation of the whole public. According to Bipan Chandra, "the great significance of this historic event was that it immediately prioritised the demand for independence inside the national movement. After "Quit India," there was no turning back. Freedom was no longer up for negotiation. And after the war, this became very evident.

Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army carried the spirit released further. Understanding the long-drawn-out dynamics of the leaders of this movement's approach is revealed by an understanding of the process of India's struggle for independence. The Gandhian phase of "struggle-truce-struggle" was one of maintaining the tempo of the movement through the stages of non-cooperation followed by civil disobedience, followed by the Quit India movement, whereas the pre-Gandhian phase was one of increasing conscious awareness of the evils of the colonial and imperialist among the masses.

Quit India Movement1

Along with Gandhi's nonviolent philosophy and Satyagraha technique, it was the tactic of struggle-truce-struggle that fueled and sustained the freedom movement and helped India become independent in 1947. During Gandhi's time, we saw a steady and sluggish change from a small minority of freedom seekers to a mass organisation of these individuals. Gandhi's most notable contribution was the effective staged strategy of struggle-truce-struggle to maintain the momentum of the movement. Gandhi undoubtedly had a key role in the mass political mobilisation of the 20th century, which was driven by the desire for the masses to rule themselves more peacefully.

Author One

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COMMENTS

  1. Article On Quit India Movement 500, 300 Words for Kids, Children and

    Long Article On Quit India Movement 500 Words In English. The Quit India Movement otherwise called India August Movement or "Bharat Choro Andolan" was propelled at the Bombay meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942. The protest was started to demand a conclusion to the British rule in India.

  2. Essay on Quit India Movement (1942)

    The Quit India movement or the Revolt of 1942 or 'August Revolution' of 1942 was the most popular and powerful mass movement in the series of agitations led by Gandhi in the course of freedom struggle. By the time this mass movement was planned, the Second World War was going on, the shadows of the Japanese invasion on India were making the ...

  3. Quit India Movement

    The Quit India Resolution was passed by the Congress Working Committee on 8 August 1942 in Bombay. Gandhi was named the movement's leader. The resolution stated the provisions of the movement as: An immediate end to British rule over India. Declaration of the commitment of free India to defend itself against all kinds of imperialism and fascism.

  4. Quit India Movement: Essay and Important Facts

    Quit India Movement: Essay and Important Facts. The fourth decade of the twentieth century is of utmost importance in the history of India's struggle for freedom. This was the period of the Second World War (1939 -1945), which shattered the mighty British Empire to its core. During the Second World War, in 1942, the Allied Powers (the Soviet ...

  5. Quit India Movement

    On 8th August 1942, the AICC passed the Quit India Resolution. Introduction. The Quit India Movement has rightly been described as the most massive antiimperialist struggle on the eve of Partition and Independence. 1942, the year that the movement was launched and the next five years witnessed unparalleled and tumultuous events in the political ...

  6. Quit India Movement

    Launched by: Indian National Congress. Nature of Movement: Mass Protests. Objective: Withdrawal of British from India. The Indian National Congress launched the 'Quit India Movement' on August 8, 1942 at the Bombay session of the 'All-India Congress Committee.'. The sole aim of the movement was to force the British to withdraw from India.

  7. Short Essay on Quit India Movement

    Quit India Resolution was passed on August 8, 1942, by the Indian National Congress. The Congress handed over the leadership of the movement entirely in the hands of Gandhi and appealed to the people of India to hold together under the leadership and carried out his instructions as disciplined soldiers of the Indian freedom.

  8. Quit India Movement 1942, Phases, Causes, Impact and Outcomes

    Quit India Movement is observed annually on August 8, 1942. Quit India Movement Day is a day to remember the sacrifices made by the Indian freedom fighters and people in their fight for independence. At the meeting of the All-India Congress Committee in Mumbai, Mahatma Gandhi demanded the end of British rule and launched the Quit India Movement.

  9. Quit India Movement

    The Quit India Movement was a movement launched at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee by Mahatma Gandhi on 8 August 1942, during World War II, demanding an end to British rule in India.. After the British failed to secure Indian support for the British war effort with the Cripps Mission, Gandhi made a call to Do or Die in his Quit India speech delivered in Bombay on 8 ...

  10. Uncover the Legacy: Quit India Movement's Call for Freedom Paragraph

    Paragraph On Quit India Movement in 250 words. The Quit India Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942, was a significant uprising against British rule in India. This movement, also known as the August Kranti, marked a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence.

  11. Quit India Movement (1942)

    Launch of the Movement: Mahatma Gandhi commenced the Quit India movement on August 8, 1942, at the Gowalia Tank Maidan (August Kranti Maidan) in Mumbai. He delivered his iconic "Do or die" speech, urging the people to engage in a peaceful and nonviolent struggle to gain independence. Slogans and Objectives: The movement was characterized by ...

  12. Quit India speech

    Mahatma Gandhi, 1942. The Quit India speech was given by Mahatma Gandhi on the eve of the Quit India movement, August 8, 1942.His address was issued shortly before midnight at the Gowalia Tank Maidan park in Bombay (present-day Mumbai), which has since been renamed August Kranti Maidan (August Revolution Ground).. The speech was given in support of Indian independence and the end of British ...

  13. Quit India Movement

    Quit India Movement was a massive anti-colonial struggle in India, launched on August 8, 1942, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, who gave the mantra of "Do or Die" during this Movement.Projected initially as the civil disobedience movement, this 'third great wave' of India's struggle for freedom soon took a violent turn with the aim of 'fight to the finish' of the colonial ...

  14. Quit India Movement, 1942-44

    I5/. (November 6, 1942) Police arson of villagers' huts is remembered to this day in Tamluk and Contai as a terrible aspect of the 1942 movement, and one police daiirgi. from Geokhali (Mahisadal) named Nalini Raha achieved a demon-like. fame, being widely referred to as ghar-p6rdi, that is, 'house-burner' Nalini.

  15. Essay on Quit India Movement (900 Words)

    Essay on Quit India Movement (900 Words) January 4, 2018 by Study Mentor Leave a Comment. One of the major milestones in the freedom struggle of our nation was the Quit India movement had lasted from the year of 1942 till 1945, when it tended to tone down gradually during various widespread factors. Launched by the father of our nation, Mahatma ...

  16. Quit India movement was a revolution in itself in the long process of

    Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues; 1. Quit India movement was a revolution in itself in the long process of India's national movement. Comment on the nature of the Quit India movement. (250 words) Reference: India's Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra. … Continue reading "Quit ...

  17. Quit India Movement: Importance, Causes, Short Note, Features

    The Quit India Movement, also known as the August Movement or Bharat Chhodo Andolan, was a significant civil disobedience movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942, during India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule.It was a major turning point in India's freedom struggle and marked a shift from the earlier demand for gradual autonomy to a more aggressive call ...

  18. Free Answer Writing Practice Question For IAS Mains Exam 2021

    Answer. On 8 th August 1942, Mahatma Gandhi gave a clarion call to end the British rule and launched the Quit India Movement at the session of the All-India Congress Committee in Mumbai. Gandhiji gave the call "Do or Die" in his speech delivered at the Gowalia Tank Maidan. Causes of the movement. The immediate cause for the movement was the ...

  19. Essay on Quit India Movement

    Mahatma Gandhi started the Quit India movement at Mumbai's Gowalia Tank Maidan, also called August Kranti Maidan. On August 8 and 9, 1942, he and other commanders assembled in this location. ... Essay on Quit India Movement. By Author One 11 Aug, 2023 5 mins read 1,292 views. ... Instagram 500. Pinterest 180. Categories. Lifestyle (142)

  20. Quit India Movement

    Why in News. On 8 th Aug 2020, India completed 78 years of Quit India Movement also known as August Kranti.. Taking inspiration from the Quit India Movement, the Prime Minister gave a call for the revival of its spirit of the Quit India Movement by coining a new slogan karenge aur karake rahenge in place of Gandhi's slogan of karo ya maro (Do or Die).; The aim of this slogan is to achieve ...

  21. Independence Day 2022: Essay On 75th Independence Day Of India For

    Quit India Movement Anniversary: Ahead Of 75th Independence Day, Know The Story Of Quit India Movement. Essay on Independence Day in 500 words. If you get an assignment to write an essay on Independence Day in 500 or 800 words then you can add the below points in the above essay points. Every year India celebrates Independence day on August 15.

  22. Article On Quit India Movement 500, 300 Words for Kids, Children and

    Article On Quit India Movement: Quit India Movement was one of the prominent historical movements of India, which led to the path of Independence in India in 1947. After the Cripps strategic, Congress solidly made plans to escalate the movement for the opportunity. The Working Committee of the Congress passed a goal on July 14, 1942, …

  23. Quit India Movement Essay

    The draft proposal that if the British did not accede to the demands, a massive civil disobedience would be launched. Gandhi launched his 'Quit India' movement on 8th August 1942 at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), with famous call to do or die. Indians were to wage one last struggle to achieve independence, or ...