Understanding the First Session of Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress (INC) was a pivotal political organization that played a significant role in India's independence movement. Its formation marked a crucial step in bringing together educated Indians to discuss political issues and demand greater representation and rights from the British government.

The first session of this historic organization is a key event in modern Indian history. Let's analyze the details surrounding this inaugural meeting.

Details of the First Indian National Congress Session

The first session of the Indian National Congress was initially planned to be held in Pune but was moved to Bombay (now Mumbai) due to an outbreak of plague in Pune. The session took place at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College in Bombay.

• Location: Bombay (now Mumbai)
• Venue: Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College
• President: Womesh Chandra Banerjee (W.C. Banerjee)
• Attendees: 72 delegates from different parts of India

The main objective of this session was to lay the foundation for a national political body and discuss important issues facing the country. The session passed several resolutions concerning administrative reforms and representation.

Analyzing the Options for the First INC Session Date

The question asks for the specific month and year the first session was held in Bombay under the presidency of Womesh Chandra Banerjee. Let's examine the given options:

• Option 1: December, 1885
• Option 2: November, 1906
• Option 3: January, 1884
• Option 4: October, 1882

Historical records confirm that the first session of the Indian National Congress was held from December 28 to 31, 1885. This aligns with Option 1.

Let's briefly look at why the other options are incorrect:

• November, 1906: The INC was already established long before this date. The 1906 session was famous for Dadabhai Naoroji's presidential address where 'Swaraj' was explicitly mentioned as the goal.
• January, 1884: While there were earlier political associations, the Indian National Congress was not founded in 1884.
• October, 1882: This date is also prior to the formation of the Indian National Congress.

Therefore, based on historical facts, the first session of the Indian National Congress, held in Bombay under the presidentship of Womesh Chandra Banerjee, took place in December, 1885.

Revision Table: Key Early Indian National Congress Sessions

Additional Information on Indian National Congress Formation

The Indian National Congress was founded by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British Indian Civil Service officer. His aim was to create a platform for civil and political dialogue among educated Indians and act as a link between the public and the British government. However, Indian leaders soon transformed the Congress into a powerful movement advocating for self-rule and independence.

Womesh Chandra Banerjee was a prominent barrister and played a crucial role in the early functioning of the Congress. Being elected as the first president was a recognition of his stature and contribution to public life at the time.