The Indian National Liberal Federation (INLF) was a political party that played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. The party was founded in 1919 by M.R. Jayakar, a prominent lawyer and politician. The INLF aimed to promote liberal values and democracy in India and to work towards Indian independence from British colonial rule.
The INLF was made up of educated, middle-class Indians who believed in the principles of liberalism, including individual rights, democracy, and free trade. The party believed that these values were essential for India’s development and progress. The INLF also supported the idea of a federal India, with autonomy for each province.
One of the key objectives of the INLF was to participate in the Indian National Congress and influence its policies towards liberal values. The party worked closely with other Indian nationalist organizations, such as the All India Muslim League and the Hindu Mahasabha, to promote the cause of Indian independence.
The INLF played an important role in the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919, which introduced limited self-government in India. The party also supported the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, which aimed to boycott British goods and institutions.
However, the INLF’s influence began to decline in the 1930s as the Indian independence movement became more focused on socialist and communist ideals. The party eventually merged with the Indian National Congress in 1947, just before India gained independence from British rule.
Overall, the Indian National Liberal Federation played a crucial role in shaping the political discourse in India during the early 20th century. The party’s commitment to liberal values and democracy laid the foundation for a democratic and independent India.
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