Subhas Chandra Bose
Explanation
The Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) was an armed force formed by Indian nationalists in Southeast Asia during World War II. Its history is divided into two phases: the first under Captain Mohan Singh and the second, more significant phase, under the leadership of Subhas Chandra Bose.Detailed Analysis:
- Rash Behari Bose Rash Behari Bose: He was a veteran revolutionary who had escaped to Japan. He founded the Indian Independence League (IIL) and played a crucial role in inviting Subhas Chandra Bose to Japan. In 1943, he handed over the leadership of the IIL and the INA to Subhas Chandra Bose in Singapore.
- Subhas Chandra Bose Subhas Chandra Bose: He is best known for reviving and reorganizing the INA after arriving in Singapore in July 1943. He took over the Supreme Command, set up the Provisional Government of Free India (Arzi Hukumat-e-Azad Hind), and expanded the army by recruiting civilians and adding a women’s regiment (Rani of Jhansi Regiment). Under his leadership, the INA marched towards the Indian border with the slogan "Chalo Dilli".
- Mohan Singh Mohan Singh: He was an officer in the British Indian Army who surrendered to the Japanese in Malaya. He conceived the idea of the INA and formed the first division (First INA) in 1942. However, due to disagreements with the Japanese regarding the army's size and role, the first INA was disbanded, and Mohan Singh was taken into custody.
- Vallabhbhai Patel Vallabhbhai Patel: He was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress within India, known for the integration of princely states post-independence. He was not associated with the leadership or organization of the INA abroad.
Key Takeaway:
While Captain Mohan Singh founded the first INA, it was Subhas Chandra Bose who reorganized, expanded, and led the force during its major military campaigns against the British in World War II.