The Belgaum congress session 1924: Session of unity: An overview
Author(s): Gangadharaiah BR
Abstract: The Belgaum Congress Session of 1924 marked a watershed moment in India’s freedom struggle, being the only session presided over by Mahatma Gandhi and remembered for its emphasis on national unity. The objective of the session was to reconcile internal rifts within the Indian National Congress, promote communal harmony, and reignite momentum in the freedom movement after a period of disillusionment following the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement. The session convened from 26th to 28th December 1924 in Belgaum, Karnataka, drawing diverse political and social groups such as the Swarajists, Khilafat Committee, Muslim League, non-Brahmin parties, liberals, and depressed classes. Methodologically, the session served as a socio-political convergence point, with parallel conferences—All India Mahasabha, Social Conference, and Non-Brahmin Conference—emphasizing caste reform, women’s rights, and nationalistic unity.
Results of the session included the reconciliation between the Swarajists and Gandhi’s supporters, endorsement of the Calcutta Agreement permitting Council entry, and rejuvenation of grassroots support through Khadi, constructive work, and the campaign against untouchability. Gandhi’s 21-day fast and leadership reaffirmed the strategy of non-violence and mass mobilization. The conference venue was symbolically named Vijayanagar, evoking historical pride among Kannadigas. It inspired regional unity and the Karnataka Unification Movement, and accelerated the establishment of Khadi centres and Harijan upliftment programs in princely Mysore. In conclusion, the Belgaum Congress Session successfully reinforced Gandhian leadership, unified diverse ideological factions, and significantly impacted India’s freedom movement at both the national and regional levels.
How to cite this article:
Gangadharaiah BR. The Belgaum congress session 1924: Session of unity: An overview. Int J Hist 2025;7(5):46-48.
