How did the Indian National Congress begin in 1885?

The Indian National Congress was formed on December 28, 1885, as a forum for educated Indians to discuss political issues and advocate for a greater role in governance under the British raj.21

Initiated by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant, the organization was established in collaboration with prominent Indian leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji and Surendranath Banerjee. The inaugural meeting took place in Bombay (now Mumbai), attended by over 70 delegates—primarily Western-educated, elite professionals including lawyers, journalists, and professors.12

These early members focused on moderate reforms rather than immediate independence, passing resolutions that served as petitions to the government. Their demands included the addition of elected representatives to legislative councils, equal opportunity for Indians to enter the civil service, and economic reforms such as the reduction of military expenditure and "home charges". Despite initial dismissal by British officials as a "microscopic minority," the Congress rapidly gained support, growing to over 1,200 delegates by 1888.12