On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress proclaimed the Declaration of Purna Swaraj, or Complete Independence, marking a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for freedom from British rule. This declaration laid the foundation for the country’s eventual independence in 1947 and established January 26 as a symbol of India’s resolve to achieve sovereignty.
The Road to Purna Swaraj
By the late 1920s, the Indian independence movement had gained significant momentum. Led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose, the movement demanded an end to British colonial rule. Despite years of negotiations and demands for dominion status within the British Empire, India’s aspirations for full independence were consistently ignored.
In December 1929, during the Lahore session of the Indian National Congress, Jawaharlal Nehru was elected as the party’s president. At this session, the Congress passed a resolution for complete independence and decided that January 26, 1930, would be celebrated as India’s Independence Day. The goal was to inspire Indians across the country to unite and demand sovereignty.
The Declaration of Independence
On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress formally issued the Declaration of Independence. The declaration stated:
“We believe that it is the inalienable right of the Indian people, as of any other people, to have freedom and to enjoy the fruits of their toil and have the necessities of life, so that they may have full opportunities of growth. We believe also that if any government deprives a people of these rights and oppresses them, the people have a further right to alter it or abolish it. The British Government in India has not only deprived the Indian people of their freedom but has based itself on the exploitation of the masses, and has ruined India economically, politically, culturally, and spiritually. We believe, therefore, that India must sever the British connection and attain Purna Swaraj or Complete Independence.”
This proclamation was followed by public gatherings, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and the recitation of the pledge for independence across the country. It was a moment of unity and defiance against colonial rule.
Legacy of January 26
Although India did not gain independence until August 15, 1947, the significance of January 26 endured. When the Indian Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, this date was chosen to honor the 1930 declaration, cementing its place as Republic Day—a national holiday celebrated with great pride and pageantry.
The Declaration of Purna Swaraj stands as a testament to the courage and determination of India’s freedom fighters. It symbolizes the country’s unwavering commitment to self-rule and justice, inspiring generations to cherish and uphold the values of democracy and sovereignty.
