Here's why:
* "Swaraj" was not a new concept in 1906: The term, meaning "self-rule" or "rule of one's own" existed long before that. It was used in ancient Indian texts and political discourse.
* Early 20th-century context: The Indian nationalist movement was gaining momentum in the early 1900s. Many leaders and thinkers used the term "Swaraj" to articulate their vision for India's future.
* Multiple individuals: It's likely that multiple individuals used the term "Swaraj" in various contexts during this period, including political speeches, writings, and discussions.
Some prominent figures who used the term around this time:
* Dadabhai Naoroji: A prominent nationalist leader who used "Swaraj" in his writings and speeches in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
* Gopal Krishna Gokhale: Another influential nationalist leader who advocated for self-rule within the British Empire.
* Bal Gangadhar Tilak: A key figure in the Indian nationalist movement who popularized the term "Swaraj" and used it in his political campaigns.
Therefore, attributing the first use of "Swaraj" in 1906 to a single individual is challenging. The term was already a part of the Indian nationalist discourse, and its usage became increasingly prominent around this time.