Satyagrahis vs. Revolutionaries

Satyagrahis

Revolutionaries

Philosophy

• Non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satyagraha), and civil disobedience

• Armed struggle, direct action, and revolutionary socialism

Key Leaders

• Mahatma Gandhi, Vinoba Bhave, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

• Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, Subhas Chandra Bose

Approach to Independence

• Peaceful protests, non-cooperation, and moral persuasion

• Assassinations, bombings, and armed insurrection

Methods of Protest

• Salt March, Non-Cooperation Movement, Quit India Movement

• Kakori Train Robbery, bombing of Central Legislative Assembly, formation of Indian National Army (INA)

View on British Rule

• Sought to negotiate and achieve independence through peaceful means

• Believed in immediate and forceful overthrow of British rule

Economic Views

• Promoted self-sufficient village economies, opposed industrialization

• Advocated for socialist economy with industrialization

Role in Indian National Movement

• Dominant in Congress-led movements, inspired widespread participation

• Operated more clandestinely, inspired youth and radical nationalists

View on Violence

• Strict adherence to non-violence

• Justified use of violence as a necessary means for liberation

Social Views

• Emphasized social reforms, upliftment of the downtrodden, and communal harmony

• Focused on national liberation, social equality, and anti-colonialism

Belief in Mass Mobilization

• Engaged masses through peaceful means and non-violent protests

• Mobilized youth and radical elements, often in secretive cells

Legacy

• Father of the Nation (Gandhi)

• symbol of non-violent resistance

• Martyrs and heroes of armed struggle 

• symbolized youthful rebellion

Criticism

• Criticized for being too idealistic and passive

• Criticized for being violent and radical

Impact on Independence

• Laid the moral and ethical foundation for independence

• inspired global movements

• Created a sense of urgency and militancy in the independence struggle

Key Events

• Dandi March, Champaran Satyagraha, Quit India Movement

• Kakori Conspiracy, Assembly Bomb Case, formation of INA