Explanation: The Indian National Congress (INC) was a significant political organization that played a crucial role in the Indian nationalist movement against British colonial rule. Founded in 1885, the INC aimed to provide a platform for the discussion of political issues and to mobilize public opinion against the British government. The first session of the INC was held in Bombay (now Mumbai) in December 1885, where 72 delegates from various parts of India gathered to discuss the political situation and the need for reforms.
The second session of the INC was held in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in December 1886. This session was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked the growing influence of the INC as a political organization. The session was attended by a larger number of delegates, including prominent leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, and Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee. Secondly, the session was held in Calcutta, which was then the capital of British India and a center of political and intellectual activity. This location choice was strategic, as it allowed the INC to reach a wider audience and gain more support from the local population.
The choice of Calcutta for the second session was not accidental. Calcutta was a hub of political and intellectual activity, and it was home to many influential leaders and thinkers who were sympathetic to the nationalist cause. The city's strategic location and its role as the capital of British India made it an ideal venue for the INC to showcase its growing influence and to engage with a broader audience.
The second session of the INC in Calcutta was also significant because it marked the beginning of a more organized and structured approach to the nationalist movement. The session saw the adoption of a constitution for the INC, which laid down the rules and procedures for the organization. This constitution helped to formalize the structure of the INC and provided a framework for its future activities.
In conclusion, the second session of the Indian National Congress was held in Calcutta in 1886, marking a significant milestone in the early history of the Indian nationalist movement. The choice of Calcutta as the venue for the session was strategic and reflected the growing influence and organizational capabilities of the INC. Understanding the historical context and significance of this event is crucial for comprehending the development of the Indian nationalist movement and the role of the Indian National Congress in it.