About Gopal Krishna Gokhale
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In the annals of India's freedom struggle, one name stands tall - that of Gopal Krishna Gokhale. A man of towering intellect, an orator par excellence, and a true nationalist, Gokhale left an indelible mark on the Indian political landscape. Born on May 9, 1866, in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Gokhale was a true champion of the common man and his life is a testament to the virtues of selfless service, humility, and perseverance.
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Early Life and Education
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Gokhale was born into a family of modest means, and his father was a schoolteacher. However, his father's emphasis on education left a deep impression on Gokhale, who was a brilliant student from a young age. He went on to earn a degree in Arts from Elphinstone College in Bombay and later pursued law studies in London.
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Embarking on the Path of Education: Gokhale's Career Choice
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Equipped with his educational qualifications, Gokhale sought a means of livelihood and found his calling in the teaching profession. Recognizing the commendable work of the Deccan Education Society during that time, he eagerly joined their esteemed ranks. It was at the Fergusson College in Poona where Gokhale was appointed as a Professor of History and Political Economy.
With unwavering resolve, Gokhale pledged twenty years of his life to the noble cause of education. Firmly believing that the growth of education and the shaping of students' characters relied on individuals dedicated to their craft, he remained steadfast in his commitment. Throughout his tenure, Gokhale exemplified the profound impact that devoted educators can have on society.
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The Mentors - G.V. Joshi and Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade
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Gokhale's political mentor was G.V. Joshi, a prominent lawyer and social reformer of his time. Joshi was instrumental in shaping Gokhale's political ideology and was a constant source of guidance and inspiration. Gokhale's association with Joshi was pivotal in his decision to enter politics, and he continued to rely on Joshi's counsel throughout his political career.
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While serving as Secretary of Sarvajanik Sabha, Abasaheb Sathe introduced Gokhale to Ranade, who was deeply impressed by Gokhale's intelligence, enthusiasm, humility, willingness to take orders, and sense of duty and responsibility.
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Ramabai Ranade described Gokhale as a dutiful son in whom Ranade had complete confidence. In 1890, Gokhale was appointed as the Secretary of Sarvajanik Sabha and Editor of its Quarterly, which provided a platform for Ranade and Gokhale to closely study the progress and destiny of different nations, political philosophies, and the infinite play of human motives and passions.
Gokhale meticulously studied documents, wrote memoranda and representations for the Government, made direct inquiries, and thus gained mastery over the details of administration.
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Public and Political Life
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Gokhale's dedication to public service and his understanding of public work were highly recognized, earning him the title of the "Rising Star of the Deccan." In recognition of his expertise and commitment, the public of Bombay elected him, along with Mr. Vachcha, to provide evidence before the Welby Commission, which was examining public expenditure in India. Gokhale's testimony before the Commission was highly valuable.
During his time in England, Gokhale delivered speeches on Indian affairs. He openly criticized the Government of Bombay for their handling of the administration during the plague outbreak and the oppressive actions of the soldiers involved. In 1902, he retired from his position at Fergusson College and received a pension of Rs 25. Around the same time, he was elected as a member of the Central Legislative Council, representing the Bombay Presidency in place of Sir Pherozeshah Mehta, who retired due to ill health. Gokhale performed his duties so effectively that he was repeatedly reelected.
His election to the Central Legislative Council marked a new chapter in Gokhale's public career, greatly benefiting the cause of the country. His first speech on the Budget received high praise, and his subsequent budget speeches were eagerly anticipated. Year after year, he highlighted the misleading nature of the budget balance and argued for the employment of Indians in government departments, reduction in military expenditure, abolition of the Salt Tax, expansion of irrigation, and wider availability of technical education. Gokhale consistently advocated for free and compulsory primary education and other necessary reforms. His effective advocacy played a significant role in the reduction of the Salt Tax.
Gokhale's influential position led many high-ranking officials in India to claim friendship with him. Lord Curzon bestowed upon Gokhale the title of C.I.E. in recognition of his exceptional abilities and noble character, along with a personal congratulatory letter.
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Gokhale's Crucial Role in the Welby Commission's Proceedings
The Indian National Congress had raised concerns regarding the unsatisfactory state of Indian finances and the discontent surrounding the settlement of accounts between India and England. In 1896, thanks to the efforts of Dadabhai Naoroji, a Royal Commission was established, presided over by Lord Welby. Gokhale played a significant role in this matter, dedicating extensive efforts to provide evidence before the Welby Commission. His written submission alone comprised a remarkable 186 printed pages, highlighting the depth of his involvement.
During the proceedings, Gokhale faced a particularly rigorous cross-examination, surpassing that experienced by any other witness. Yet, he exhibited unmatched resilience in defending his position. Grounded in thorough research and the conclusions he had drawn, Gokhale firmly held onto his stance. He emphasized the visible decline in the country's capacity to bear the burden, juxtaposed with the continuous rise in expenses. This situation necessitated heavy reliance on taxation, ultimately depleting our fiscal reserves.
Gokhale's unwavering determination and well-founded arguments shed light on the pressing challenges India faced in terms of its financial condition. His contributions underscored the need for careful consideration and proactive measures to address these issues.
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On partition of Bengal
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Multiple proposals were put forward to partition the Bengal province, encompassing present-day West Bengal, Bangladesh, Bihar, Chota Nagpur, and Orissa. In June 1905, Lord Curzon introduced the partition scheme, which aimed to reorganize administrative responsibilities while also dividing the Hindu and Muslim communities. This move sparked outrage and discontent among the people.
In September 1905, Gokhale, following the instructions of Surendranath Banerjee, embarked on a journey to England with the purpose of highlighting the grievances caused by the partition to the British authorities. During his tour, Gokhale delivered approximately 50 speeches in 45 days, addressing various clubs and societies. His primary message emphasized the deteriorating state of affairs in India, attributing it to the negligence of the British people and Parliament in entrusting the governance of India to a select group of administrators. Gokhale strongly advocated for immediate redress of the Bengal partition issue, along with fundamental changes to address the broader concerns of the Indian people.
Gokhale's courage, clarity, and eloquence in representing his country's cause in Britain greatly enhanced his reputation within India. Gokhale effectively captured and conveyed the sentiments of the educated classes of India, as noted by Henry Cotton, a radical member of the British Committee.
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Right to education
Gokhale passionately argued against the grave injustice of depriving millions of people from even the most basic education, emphasizing that it was a cruel and monstrous wrong. On March 16, 1911, he presented the Elementary Education Bill, but unfortunately, it was rejected at that time. However, his vision eventually materialized in the form of the Right to Education, which was enshrined as a constitutional amendment on April 1, 2010.
Dr. Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, acknowledged the historical significance of Gokhale's advocacy. He remarked that nearly a century ago, the illustrious Gopal Krishna Gokhale fervently pleaded before the Imperial Legislative Council to grant the Indian people the fundamental right to education.
Indentured Labour Bill
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Gokhale actively participated in various Select Committees, lending his expertise to bills that have had enduring significance to this day. Among these were the Indian Universities Bill, Indian Official Secrets Bill, and the Seditious Meetings Bill of 1908. These legislations have had far-reaching effects and remain relevant in contemporary times.
Furthermore, Gokhale played a pivotal role in introducing the Indentured Labour Bill, which aimed to abolish the oppressive system of bonded laborers who migrated from India to British colonies in search of employment. This bill not only addressed the pressing issue in South Africa but also provided valuable support to Gandhi's struggle. Additionally, it brought much-needed relief to indentured laborers in other British colonies such as Fiji, Guyana, and Mauritius.
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The Association with Mahatma Gandhi
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Gokhale's association with Mahatma Gandhi is perhaps one of the most significant aspects of his life. Gandhi regarded Gokhale as his mentor and was deeply influenced by his ideas and philosophy. Gokhale, in turn, recognized Gandhi's potential as a leader and encouraged him to take up the cause of Indian independence. Gandhi often credited Gokhale with shaping his political ideology and believed that he would not have been able to achieve his goals without Gokhale's guidance.
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Gandhiji referred to Gokhale as a Mahatma. At that time, Gandhiji himself had not yet attained the status of a Mahatma, and Gokhale was widely recognized by the Indian public as the Honourable Mr. Gokhale. However, in Gandhiji's heart, he considered Gokhale to be an exemplary Mahatma, cherishing him as an ideal and aspiring to embody that ideal within himself. In Mahatma Gandhi's own life, he magnified and demonstrated the virtues he observed in his revered mentor on a grander scale.
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Legacy
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Gokhale's contribution to the Indian freedom struggle is immeasurable. He was one of the early proponents of Swaraj, or self-rule, and his speeches and writings inspired generations of Indians to strive for independence. His emphasis on social reform and the need to address the issues of poverty, illiteracy, and caste discrimination continue to resonate with Indians today.
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Gokhale consistently stressed the pressing necessity for a select group of young men to step forward and commit their lives to political endeavors in every province of India. In fact, he held a longstanding aspiration of establishing a lifestyle akin to political sannyasis, individuals wholly dedicated to serving the country. This vision materialized in the form of the 'Servants of India Society,' initiated by Gokhale himself.
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