Acharya Kriplani: The Gandhian Leader and Freedom Fighter
Introduction
Among the towering figures of India’s freedom struggle, Acharya Jivatram Bhagwandas Kriplani, popularly known as Acharya Kriplani, holds a distinct place. A staunch Gandhian, teacher, freedom fighter, socialist, and parliamentarian, Kriplani was not only an active participant in the independence movement but also played a crucial role in shaping India’s early parliamentary democracy. His unflinching commitment to truth, morality, and Gandhian ideals earned him admiration from peers and respect from opponents. Despite his differences with many leaders post-independence, he remained a voice of conscience in Indian politics.
This article explores Acharya Kriplani’s life, his contributions to the freedom movement, his political journey after independence, and his enduring legacy.
Early Life and Education
Acharya Kriplani was born on 11 November 1888 in Hyderabad, Sindh (now in Pakistan). He came from a Sindhi Hindu family, and his upbringing was steeped in traditional values. After completing his early education in Sindh, he pursued higher studies at Fergusson College, Pune, and later obtained a master’s degree in history and economics from Bombay University.
Kriplani briefly worked as a teacher and later joined the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Gujarat Vidyapith, where he taught history and political science. His deep engagement with students and his passion for teaching earned him the affectionate title of “Acharya” (meaning teacher), which stayed with him throughout his life.
Association with Mahatma Gandhi
Kriplani’s life took a transformative turn when he came in contact with Mahatma Gandhi in the 1910s. He was deeply inspired by Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and civil disobedience. Kriplani soon became one of Gandhi’s close associates and ardent followers.
He actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Salt Satyagraha (1930), and Quit India Movement (1942). As a Gandhian, Kriplani embodied simplicity and moral uprightness, often wearing khadi and advocating for self-reliance. His leadership was marked by integrity and an unwavering belief in ethical politics.
Role in the Indian National Congress
Kriplani rose to prominence within the Indian National Congress (INC). He served as the General Secretary of the INC for nearly a decade (1934–1945), a position in which he coordinated between Gandhi and the party organization. His tenure was significant, as he maintained unity among factions and mobilized support for the national movement.
In 1946, Kriplani was elected as the President of the Indian National Congress. His presidency came at a critical time when India was on the verge of independence but was also grappling with communal tensions and the looming partition. Kriplani presided over the Congress session at Meerut (1946) and played a mediating role between differing factions of the party.
Contribution to the Quit India Movement
During the Quit India Movement of 1942, Acharya Kriplani was at the forefront. Along with other leaders, he was arrested by the British government and imprisoned. Despite being in jail, his commitment to the cause of independence remained unshaken. His leadership inspired many young activists and ordinary citizens to rise against colonial rule.
Relationship with Other Leaders
Kriplani maintained cordial yet independent relations with other stalwarts like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, and Rajendra Prasad. However, he was never hesitant to express his differences, especially when he felt that Gandhian ideals were being compromised.
One of the most notable incidents was his resignation from the Congress presidency in 1947, following differences with Nehru and Patel over the division of responsibilities between the Congress Party and the Interim Government. This episode reflected his uncompromising nature and belief in institutional propriety.
Post-Independence Political Journey
After independence, Kriplani remained active in politics but gradually distanced himself from the Congress, criticizing its leadership for deviating from Gandhian principles.
- In 1951, he contested the first general elections but lost to Sucheta Kriplani (his wife and a prominent freedom fighter) in one seat, though he later won from another constituency.
- He became a key opposition leader in Parliament, holding the government accountable and raising issues of corruption, governance, and ethical standards.
- Kriplani strongly opposed the increasing centralization of power under Nehru and later under Indira Gandhi.
His interventions in Parliament earned him the reputation of being the “conscience keeper of the nation.”
Marriage to Sucheta Kriplani
Acharya Kriplani was married to Sucheta Kriplani, who herself was a prominent freedom fighter and later became the first woman Chief Minister of an Indian state (Uttar Pradesh). The couple symbolized the commitment of Gandhian leaders to public service, with both dedicating their lives to the cause of the nation.
Stand Against Indira Gandhi
One of the highlights of Kriplani’s later political career was his sharp criticism of Indira Gandhi’s policies, especially during the Emergency (1975–77). He condemned the suspension of civil liberties, censorship of the press, and authoritarian tendencies. Even in old age, he remained steadfast in defending democracy and constitutional values.
Legacy and Death
Acharya Kriplani passed away on 19 March 1982 at the age of 93. His life was a shining example of integrity, sacrifice, and adherence to principles. Unlike many leaders who sought power and privileges, Kriplani lived a modest life, true to his Gandhian ideals.
His legacy lies in his:
- Commitment to ethical politics.
- Role in strengthening India’s parliamentary democracy.
- Courage to question even the most powerful leaders when democracy was under threat.
FAQs
1. Who was Acharya Kriplani?
Acharya J.B. Kriplani was a freedom fighter, Gandhian leader, teacher, and parliamentarian who played an important role in India’s independence movement and later as a voice of conscience in Indian politics.
2. Why was he called ‘Acharya’?
He earned the title “Acharya” (teacher) because of his work as a professor at institutions like Banaras Hindu University and Gujarat Vidyapith.
3. What was his role in the Indian National Congress?
He served as General Secretary for over a decade and became the Congress President in 1946 during a crucial phase of India’s freedom struggle.
4. Was Acharya Kriplani married?
Yes, he was married to Sucheta Kriplani, a fellow freedom fighter and the first woman Chief Minister of India.
5. What was his stand during the Emergency?
He strongly opposed Indira Gandhi’s Emergency, defending democracy, civil liberties, and press freedom.
Conclusion
Acharya Kriplani’s life was a saga of selfless service, moral courage, and unflinching dedication to Gandhian ideals. While he may not have held high positions of power after independence, his stature as a principled leader remains unparalleled. In an era when politics is often equated with power and opportunism, Kriplani’s example reminds us of the possibility of politics rooted in ethics and service to the people.
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