In the second half of the 19th Century, due to the spread of modern education system, the development of newspaper and the European movement, national consciousness was developing day by day among Indians. Many organisations also being established in the context. One such organisation India Association was working at the national level. Due to this the Rent Bill, Lytton Press Act and Arms Act were withdrawn. Indian nationalists effectively opposed all to these. The press act was withdrawn due to massive protests.
Indian nationalists realized that it was necessary to organize for effective protest. The organized opposition of the Ilbert Bill by the Europeans during the time of Lord Ripen led to the feeling of nationalism, sense of organization and resentment towards the British among the Indians.
Under these circumstances, in 1883, the Indian Association called the national conference to unite the divided nationalists. On the other hand, A.O. Hume, a retired British officer also established the Indian National Federation in 1885 for the same purpose. Hume continued to interact with the Indian leaders and the Viceroy. He also had the supported of the British Parliamentary Committee. Due to their efforts, due to the outbreak of plague in Poona on 25-28 December, this meeting was held at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit college, Bombay and from here the name of the organisation was changed to All India National Congress. Thus the Indian National Congress was established.
Primary objectives
- To establish unity among organizations related to national interest.
- To establish friendship and goodwill among the countrymen.
- Strengthening of national unity.
- Efforts for reforms in Viceroy and council through applications.
