Karachi Congress Session (March 1931) – Explained Simply
The Karachi Session of Congress was a special session held in March 1931 to approve the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and discuss India's future goals.
Key Decisions at the Karachi Session
1️⃣ Tribute to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev
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Congress rejected political violence but praised the bravery and sacrifice of the three martyrs.
2️⃣ Approval of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact
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Congress officially accepted the pact, though many leaders were unhappy about Bhagat Singh’s execution.
3️⃣ Reaffirmation of Purna Swaraj
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Congress again declared its goal of full independence.
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It was the first time Congress clearly defined Swaraj, saying:
🏛️ Political freedom must include economic freedom to help the poor and starving masses.
4️⃣ Resolution on Fundamental Rights 📜
Congress promised basic rights for all Indians, including:
✅ Free speech and free press
✅ Right to form associations and hold public meetings
✅ Equal legal rights for everyone (regardless of caste, religion, or gender)
✅ Universal adult franchise (voting rights for all adults)
✅ Government neutrality in religion
✅ Free and compulsory primary education
✅ Protection of culture, language, and script of minorities
5️⃣ Resolution on National Economic Programme 💰
Congress focused on helping farmers, workers, and industries, including:
✅ Lower taxes for peasants and landlords
✅ No rent for farmers with very small landholdings
✅ Debt relief for farmers
✅ Regulation of moneylenders to prevent high-interest exploitation
✅ Better wages and working conditions for laborers
✅ Fixed working hours and protection for women workers
✅ Right of workers and farmers to form unions
✅ Government control over major industries, mines, and transport
Significance of the Karachi Session
✔️ First time Congress clearly defined its vision for an independent India.
✔️ It linked political freedom with economic and social justice.
✔️ Laid the foundation for India’s future Constitution (many rights later became part of the Indian Constitution in 1950).
This session was important because it showed that freedom was not just about ending British rule, but also about creating a just and equal society. 🚩