Azad Hind Fauj, or the Indian National Army, was first established by Mohan Singh in 1942. It was revived by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on October 21, 1943, during the Second World War to secure India’s complete independence from the British Raj.

Impact of Indian National Army on India’s Freedom Struggle

The INA had failed to achieve its goal, but it made a significant impact on the freedom struggle:

• It became clear to the British that they could no longer depend on the loyalty of Indian Soldiers and treat them as mercenaries.
• The Red Fort Trials, in which several captured INA soldiers were put on trial by the British at the Red Fort in Delhi, which further fueled nationalist sentiments.
• The INA's struggles showed that the armed struggle against the British was not affected by communal division, as Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs fought as Indians.
• The actions of the Rani Jhansi Brigade, an exclusive women's force, demonstrated the capabilities of Indian Women waging armed struggle against the British.
• The INA had also demonstrated the enthusiasm and concern of overseas Indians for the freedom of their motherland.

Contributions of Subhash Chandra Bose to India’s Freedom Struggle

• Dynamic Leadership: Bose's charismatic and dynamic leadership played a crucial role in rallying support for the INA and inspiring nationalist sentiments.

• Formation of Forward Bloc: Subhash Chandra Bose formed the Forward Bloc, a political organisation that aimed to unite all anti-colonial forces.

• Ideology of Socialism: Bose advocated for a socialist-oriented economic system that emphasised self-reliance and social justice.

• International Connections: Subhash Chandra Bose established connections with various leaders and organisations worldwide to gain support for India's freedom struggle.

• Controversial Escapes: Bose's escape from British custody and subsequent travels to Germany and Japan raised controversy but also showcased his determination to seek international support for India's independence.

• Vision for a Free India: Bose's vision for a free India emphasised social equality, economic development, and an inclusive society.

• Enduring Legacy: He is often remembered as a symbol of courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to India's independence.

Hence, INA's military campaigns and Bose's dynamic leadership inspired nationalist sentiments and challenged British rule, which continues to be remembered as an integral part of India's freedom movement.

Ideological Clash Between Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi

The approaches of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for India's independence highlight significant ideological and tactical differences. Here are the key contrasts:

Non-Violence vs. Militancy:

• Mahatma Gandhi: Advocated for non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience (Satyagraha). He believed that moral integrity and peaceful resistance would ultimately lead to India's freedom. His methods aimed at transforming both the oppressor and the oppressed through moral means​​.

• Subhash Chandra Bose: Believed in a militant approach and armed struggle. He felt that only a direct confrontation with the British through force would achieve independence. Bose's formation of the Indian National Army (INA) and seeking support from Axis powers during World War II illustrate his strategy of using military means to fight British rule​.

Economic Philosophy:

• Gandhi: Promoted economic self-sufficiency through the revival of cottage industries and agriculture, emphasising a decentralised, village-based economy. His vision of Swaraj was one of self-reliant, autonomous communities free from external control​.

• Subhash Chandra Bose: Emphasized industrialisation and state-led economic initiatives. He believed in building a strong industrial base to achieve economic self-reliance and reduce dependence on Western powers. This approach was more aligned with the ideas of Nehru than Gandhi's village-centric model​.

Collaboration with Axis Powers:

• Subhash Chandra Bose: Sought support from Axis powers (Germany and Japan) during World War II to gain military assistance for the Indian freedom struggle. He formed the INA to fight against the British from the outside, hoping to incite a rebellion within India​.

• Gandhi: Strongly opposed any collaboration with fascist regimes, maintaining that the means used to achieve freedom must align with ethical and moral principles. He critiqued Bose’s tactics as inconsistent with the values of truth and non-violence​.

Outcomes of Bose and Gandhi’s Struggles

• Subhash Chandra Bose’s INA: Although the INA failed in its military objectives, it significantly inspired Indian soldiers and nationalists. The trials of INA officers became a rallying point for anti-colonial sentiments in India.

• Gandhi’s Movements: The Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement, led by Gandhi, mobilised millions across India through non-violent resistance, creating substantial pressure on the British administration and garnering international support for India’s independence​​.

Despite their differences, both leaders respected each other’s dedication and patriotism. Gandhi acknowledged Bose’s passion for India’s freedom, and Subhash Chandra Bose respected Gandhi’s moral and ethical stance. This mutual respect highlighted the diversity of strategies within the Indian independence movement.