Explanations:The Indian National Congress (INC) was a political party that played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. It was founded in 1885 and held its first session in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1920. This session was significant as it marked a new phase in the struggle for independence from British rule. The presiding officer of this session was Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent leader and one of the "Lal-Bal-Pal" trio, which also included Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal.
Lala Lajpat Rai was a key figure in the Indian Nationalist movement. He was known for his fiery speeches and his role in the Swadeshi movement, which aimed to promote Indian goods and boycott British products. His leadership in the INC session in 1920 was a testament to his influence and the respect he commanded among the nationalist leaders of the time.
The INC was a platform for various leaders who had different approaches to achieving independence. Lala Lajpat Rai, along with other leaders like Tilak and Pal, advocated for a more aggressive stance against British rule. The session in 1920 was a turning point, as it saw the adoption of the Non-Cooperation Movement, which was a strategy to achieve independence through non-violent means.
It is important to understand the context of the Indian independence movement and the roles of various leaders. Lala Lajpat Rai's leadership in the 1920 session was significant because it represented a shift towards more assertive and organized resistance against British rule. This session laid the groundwork for future movements and strategies that would eventually lead to India's independence in 1947.
While other leaders like Bipin Chandra Pal and Bal Gangadhar Tilak were also influential, they did not preside over the 1920 session. Aurobindo Ghosh, another notable figure, was more involved in spiritual and philosophical leadership rather than direct political leadership in the INC. Therefore, Lala Lajpat Rai is the correct answer as he was the presiding officer of the first session of the All India Congress held in Bombay in 1920.