Question

Explain Subhash Chandra Bose fundamental differences with Gandhiji.

Answer 1

(i) Subhas Chandra was against Gandhian policies and programme. He had little belief in the constitutional means and peaceful methods for the attainment of freedom. He was a veritable revolutionary and favoured armed struggle to oust and end the British imperialism. He was ready to seek foreign assistance to achieve his goals. He believed in employing tact and diplomacy while dealing with his opponents.
He said that-“Gandhiji’s logic cannot convince the British rulers. He has failed as he always keeps his cards open.”
(ii) He was in favour of socialism and formed the ‘Forward Block’ to establish a socialist society in India after independence. This was against the policy of Mahatma Gandhi.
(iii) Bose advocated that the political instability of war-time Britain should be taken advantage of rahter than simply waiting for the British to grant independence after the end of the war. Gandhiji ad Nehru wanted to adopt a compromising attitude and opposed the national struggle during the war.
(iv) In 1939, Bose launched the National Planning Committee for drawing up a comprehensive plan for industrialisation. However, Gandhiji was opposed to it. He favoured small scale industries to make the villages self-sufficient.
(v) The leaders of the movement of the people of Princely States expected sympathy and cooperation. Bose wanted the Congress to help the people in their struggle for freedom whereas Gandhiji was opposed to any intervention.