Surat Split

The Surat Split in 1907 marked a significant division within the Indian National Congress (INC) into two distinct factions: the Moderates and the Extremists. This schism was primarily driven by ideological disparities between the two groups. While the Moderates favored gradual and constitutional methods of agitation, the Extremists advocated for more radical approaches, including boycotts and swadeshi movements.

Reason for Surat Split

• Divergent Strategies: Moderates and Extremists had different approach in the future of movements.

• Moderates: led by leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale, advocated for a gradualist approach towards achieving self-government within the British Empire.

• Extremists: led by leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, demanded more immediate and radical measures, including Swaraj or complete independence from British rule.

• Dispute over Leadership: The leadership dispute between the Moderates and the Extremists became a significant point of contention. 

• Example: The Moderates favoured Dadabhai Naoroji as the president, while the Extremists supported Tilak's candidacy.

• Differences in Ideology: The Moderates and the Extremists had differing ideological perspectives which led to ideological clashes within the Congress.

• Example: Use of boycotts, protests, and civil disobedience against British rule.

Short term consequences of Surat split

• Division of Congress: The split resulted in the division of the Indian National Congress into two factions, weakening the unity of the nationalist movement and disrupting its effectiveness in challenging British rule.

• Disruption of Congress Sessions: The Surat Session of 1907, where the split occurred, was marred by violent clashes and disruptions, tarnishing the image of the Congress and hindering its functioning.

• Shift in Leadership: With the departure of the Extremists from the Congress, the leadership of the organization remained largely in the hands of the Moderates, impacting the direction and strategies of the nationalist movement.

Long term consequences of Surat split

• Rise of Militant Nationalism: The Surat Split led to the emergence of a more militant and assertive form of nationalism represented by the Extremists. This shift laid the groundwork for more radical tactics in the struggle for independence.

• Impact on Congress Ideology: The split highlighted the ideological diversity within the Congress and contributed to the evolution of its ideology, incorporating both gradualist and revolutionary approaches towards achieving independence.

• Legacy of Division: The division between Moderates and Extremists persisted within the Indian National Congress for years to come, shaping its internal dynamics and influencing its strategies in the struggle against British rule.