Towards Freedom in Pondicherry: Society, Economy and Politics under French Rule (1816-1962)

Pondicherry's history is connected to the French, and the study focuses on politics and the freedom movement. Goubert's Socialist Party accepted the Indian Union to safeguard French Indian and Pondicherry interests, despite opposition from the French government. This led to the disregarding of the population of French India and the scuttling out of French India permanently.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Pondicherry, a unique city with a rich history intertwined with the French, has been the subject of extensive research. This study delves into various aspects of Pondicherry society, including social, cultural, economic, and political developments. As the freedom movement gained momentum in British India, Pondicherry and its dependencies faced a crucial decision: whether to join the French Union or the Indian Union.

Gouberts Socialist Party, driven by the desire to protect French Indias distinct identity and interests, took a strategic stance. They opposed the French offer of a referendum on independence and chose to align themselves with the Indian Union, primarily due to the assurance provided by Jawaharlal Nehru. This decision caught many off guard, including Gouberts political adversaries, particularly the French.

Goubert's approach was meticulously planned, and he managed to win his battle without resorting to violence. He accepted a certain dishonor among the French, which ultimately helped him secure the best outcome for Pondicherry and its people. The French government, recognizing the strength of Gouberts position, decided to set aside the constitutional provisions of Article 27. This article stipulated that any cession, exchange, or addition to territories required the consent of the concerned population. By disregarding the population of French India, the French government effectively scuttled out of the region.

Prior to this, the French had given away certain loges to India without consulting the parliament or the people concerned. However, in their quest to permanently disengage from India, they disregarded the French constitutional provision and threw overboard the provisions to ensure their cultural presence. This decision marked a significant turning point in the history of Pondicherry and its relationship with the French.

In conclusion, Pondicherry's history is a testament to the complex and multifaceted nature of its connections with the French. The city's decision to align itself with the Indian Union, driven by strategic considerations and the promise of protection for its unique identity, played a pivotal interests. Gouberts Socialist Party's leadership and strategic maneuvers ensured that Pondicherry and its dependencies could navigate the challenges of the changing political landscape and secure a prosperous future.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032377018