GS Question

1. Ideological Differences:

Subhash Chandra Bose believed in the use of armed struggle to attain freedom from British rule. He formed the Forward Bloc and later the Indian National Army (INA) to fight against the British forces. On the other hand, Mahatma Gandhi strongly advocated for non-violent resistance and passive resistance. He used methods such as civil disobedience, boycotts, and peaceful protests to challenge British rule.

2. Attitude towards Collaboration with the British:

Bose sought support from foreign countries to help India gain independence, even if it meant collaborating with countries like Germany, Italy, and Japan, who were at war with the British. Meanwhile, Gandhi maintained a staunch position of not seeking foreign assistance or support from any power involved in the war. He believed that India should stand on its own path of non-violence and self-reliance.

3. Approach toward Social Issues:

Gandhi emphasized social reforms and addressing societal issues like untouchability, women's rights, and poverty. He felt that the struggle for independence should go hand in hand with efforts to build an inclusive and just Indian society. Bose, on the other hand, focused primarily on the political aspect of gaining freedom and did not actively engage in advancing social reforms.

4. Organizational Approach:

Bose wanted a centralized and disciplined organization to achieve independence. He sought to unite the various ideological factions within the Indian National Congress and believed in strong leadership. In contrast, Gandhi emphasized decentralized organization and encouraged mass mobilization. He believed in collective action and empowering individuals to take responsibility for their freedom struggle.

5. International Perspective:

Bose had a global perspective and believed in building alliances with other countries in Asia and Africa struggling against colonial rule. He sought support and inspiration from global anti-colonial movements. Gandhi, though not opposed to international cooperation, focused primarily on India's struggle for independence and the attainment of self-sufficiency.

6. Approach toward Religion and Nationalism:

Gandhi saw religion as an integral part of the struggle for freedom and advocated for inter-religious harmony. He emphasized the idea of a composite Indian nationalism that transcended religious differences. Bose, while acknowledging the importance of religious unity, was more inclined towards a secular form of nationalism, focusing primarily on political freedom rather than intertwining it with religious harmony.

Overall, Bose's approach was more radical, assertive, and pragmatic, while Gandhi's approach was based on non-violence, spirituality, and a belief in the moral force of truth. These differences in approach made them prominent figures in the Indian freedom struggle, representing different ideologies and methods to achieve independence.