Why Did Congress Demand Britain to Declare Its War Aims? – History UPSC Notes

Why Did Congress Demand Britain to Declare Its War Aims? When World War II broke out in 1939 , Britain claimed it was fighting for democracy and freedom . However, India itself was under colonial rule with no democratic rights. 📌 Congress’ Demand: If Britain was truly fighting for democracy , it should first grant democracy to India . Britain must clearly state its war aims , including: Whether it would grant India self-rule after the war. How democratic principles would be applied to India’s governance . 📌 British Response: Viceroy Linlithgow refused to commit to any post-war reforms for India. Instead, he offered a weak consultative committee with no real power. 🚨 Impact: Congress withdrew support for Britain in the war. This led to Congress ministries resigning in 1939 . Fueled anti-British sentiment, leading to the Quit India Movement (1942) .