Would India Have Been Better Without the British?

In the discourse of Indian history and relentless debates surrounding the British Raj, one often hears the argument that India would have been better off without its colonial masters. This discussion often delves into the deep-rooted complexities that arise when one civilization attempts to rule and influence another. From economic exploitation to social upheaval, the legacy of British rule in India remains a topic of intense discussion. This article aims to explore the multifaceted nature of this debate, touching on aspects such as exploitation, cultural influence, and the ultimate consequences of British rule.

The Exploitative Nature of British Rule

The proponents of the argument that India would have fared better without the British often point to the exploitative nature of British rule. It is argued that the administration and policies of the British were inherently exploitative and brutal, designed to enrich British interests at the expense of the Indian populace. Language studies, particularly the study of Sanskrit, marked the beginning of a process that would lead to the identification of the 'Aryans' in Iran and India, a concept that is deeply intertwined with colonial propaganda and control. Authors like Rabindranath Tagore, in his articles such as Raja Paje and Parishishta, shed light on the racial and social inferiority narratives imposed by the British, which contributed to the subjugation of the Indian people.

From a socio-economic perspective, the argument hinges on the claim that the British not only destroyed local industries and agriculture but also introduced a system that turned independent farmers into serfs, leading to widespread famine and death. For instance, historian studies reveal that about 12.5% of the world's economy was controlled by Bengal, India's richest province, under British rule. However, within a century, Bengal's rich agricultural system was devastated, resulting in recurring famines, with an estimated death toll of 35 million people.

Effect on Indian Institutions and Modernity

While the argument about the negative impacts of British rule is compelling, it is also suggested that the British left behind some valuable assets, such as railway tracks, roads, and administrative machinery. These were built to serve British interests, but today, they are a part of the modern infrastructure of India. However, the broader question remains: would these benefits outweigh the exploitation and devastation? The narrative of progress in India is often anchored in the hope and promise of a future that will surpass the mistakes of the past.

The true measure of the impact of British rule can be gauged by examining the transformation of India over the years since its independence. In 2014, India saw a significant shift in its political leadership, leading to domestic reforms and an economic resurgence. The hope is that in the coming decades, India will indeed surpass most nations in terms of GDP and growth, mitigating the long-term damage inflicted by British rule.

A Critical Historiography

The historiography surrounding the British Raj is complex and often contested. While some Western scholars argue that the British left India out of benevolence, historical evidence suggests a different narrative. The British administration, while establishing some modern institutions, also left behind a socially, culturally, and economically ravaged India. The argument that the British left for their own benevolence is fundamentally flawed. Instead, it was a strategic retreat, clearing the way for a new power to emerge.

The argument concludes by pointing to the monumental transformation India has undergone post-independence. While there are significant challenges ahead, the progress made over the last few decades is undeniable. From the days when India could not even produce safety pins, to the modernity and progress we see today, every step forward is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Indian people. The journey is far from over, but the progress made so far is a clear indication that India is poised to continue its rise.