The Labour Party: The recent victory of the Labour Party in Britain has garnered attention in India due to its historical ties and significant support for India’s independence. This party, over a century old, is remembered for its crucial role in India’s path to freedom.
Formation and Early Years
The Labour Party was established in 1900 to represent the interests of workers and socialists in the British Parliament. From its inception, the party showed a deep sympathy for India’s struggle for independence, with its leaders consistently voicing support from 1917 to 1939.
The 1945 Election Promise
In the 1945 general elections, the Labour Party promised to grant India its independence, a commitment it fulfilled decisively. At that time, Britain was recovering from the Second World War, and the Conservative Party, led by Winston Churchill, was strongly opposed to Indian independence. In contrast, the Labour Party advocated for self-rule for India.
The Impact of Labour’s 1945 Victory
Following its electoral victory in 1945, the Party, under Prime Minister Clement Attlee, swiftly moved towards granting India independence. In a September 1945 broadcast, Lord Wavell, the Viceroy of India, announced the Labour government’s policy of complete self-rule for India and the initiation of constitutional preparations.
The India Independence Act of 1947
The Labour government began drafting the legislation for India’s independence in 1946. This culminated in the India Independence Act, 1947, which was approved by the British Parliament on 18 July 1947. This act set the stage for India’s independence on 15 August 1947, as declared by Prime Minister Attlee in the House of Commons earlier that year.
Lasting Legacy and Continued Support
The Labour Party’s proactive steps towards India’s independence marked a significant milestone. Even in subsequent years, whenever the Labour Party came to power, it continued to prioritize and support India, reflecting the enduring relationship between the two
