Explanation: The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the oldest and most influential political parties in India. It was founded in 1885 with the aim of promoting the interests of the Indian people and working towards the end of British colonial rule. The first session of the INC was held in Bombay (now Mumbai) on December 28, 1885. This session was significant as it brought together a diverse group of Indian intellectuals, politicians, and social reformers who were united in their desire for greater political representation and eventual self-rule.
The choice of Bombay as the location for the first session was not arbitrary. Bombay was a major commercial and industrial center in the late 19th century, and it was home to a large number of educated Indians who were actively involved in various reform movements. The city's cosmopolitan nature and its role as a hub for trade and commerce made it an ideal location for the inaugural session of the INC.
The INC's first session was attended by 72 delegates from various parts of India, including prominent figures such as A.O. Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji, and W.C. Bonnerjee. The session was presided over by W.C. Bonnerjee, and it laid the foundation for the INC's future role in the Indian independence movement. Over the years, the INC played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion against British rule and eventually led the country to independence in 1947.
Understanding the historical context of the INC's first session is important for comprehending the evolution of the Indian independence movement and the role of various political organizations in shaping modern India. The INC's establishment and its first session in Bombay marked the beginning of a formal political movement that would go on to play a pivotal role in India's struggle for freedom.