Which one among the following explains the meaning of the ‘Safety Valve Theory1 in the context of Indian National Movement ?

The 'Safety Valve Theory' suggests that the Indian National Congress (INC) was founded by A.O. Hume, a retired British civil servant, to provide a safe, constitutional outlet for the growing discontent among educated Indians [1]. Proponents of this theory, including extremist leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai, argued that the British encouraged the formation of the INC to prevent a potential popular uprising or revolutionary outbreak similar to the 1857 revolt [1]. By channeling political grievances through a structured organization, the British aimed to contain nationalist sentiments and maintain colonial dominance. While some historians view the INC as an organic development of Indian political aspirations, the safety valve thesis specifically focuses on the strategic British intention to use the organization as a mechanism to release 'steam' from the mounting dissatisfaction of the Indian masses [1].

Sources

1. [1] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 11: Indian National Congress: Foundation and the Moderate Phase > Was It a Safety Valve? > p. 248