Question

Evaluate the role of business class in the “Civil Disobedience Movement”.

Answer 1

Hint: Civil Disobedience Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930. Poorna Swaraj or complete independence was declared by Congress. Everyone who participated in the movement has their own meaning of Swaraj.

Complete answer: Civil Disobedience Movement was one of most mobilised movements in history. The movement mobilised all the sections of the society, including women, youngsters, business class, working class, peasants, etc. Each section has its own meaning of poorna swaraj. For the Business class, Swaraj means freedom from oppressive colonial policies that restricted their business activities. The business class wanted discouragement in imports by demanding protection against it and a rupee-sterling foreign exchange ratio. In order to achieve their goals and business interests, they gave financial assistance for the movement and refused to sell and buy foreign goods. In 1920, they formed Indian Industrial and Commercial Congress and in 1927, Federation of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI). They wanted their business to flourish in India and were apprehended off the influence of socialism, especially among congress youth. Thus, Business class supported the movement.

Note: However when the movement was relaunched in 1932, the business class was no longer enthusiastic and withdrew their support from the movement. They were apprehended of the disruption in business activities and militant activities.