Question

“Quit India Movement challenged the British rule and shaped the course of Indian Independence.” Justify the statement.
 

Hint:

The Quit India Movement was a turning point in the Indian independence struggle, signaling the end of British colonial rule and marking a significant shift towards freedom.

Answer 1

The Quit India Movement of 1942 was a significant turning point in India’s struggle for independence. The movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi, was aimed at securing complete independence from British rule. The British, at that time, were deeply involved in World War II and were unable to effectively suppress the movement, despite using repression and violence.
The Quit India Movement united people across India, from all walks of life, against British colonial rule. It marked a shift from the moderate, constitutional struggle to a mass-based movement calling for direct action. The slogan “Do or Die” exemplified the resolve of the people to achieve freedom, even if it meant sacrificing their lives.
Although the British suppressed the movement by arresting leaders and using force, it had a profound impact on the British administration. The movement exposed the vulnerability of British rule in India and highlighted the unity of the Indian people in their desire for independence. The British government’s inability to control the mass unrest made it clear that maintaining colonial rule was no longer feasible.
Thus, the Quit India Movement shaped the final phase of India’s freedom struggle, demonstrating the growing strength of the Indian nationalist movement and accelerating the process of independence, which was achieved in 1947.