Question

Examine the role of Gandhiji in the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Answer 1

Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934) was one of the most significant movements in India's struggle for independence, and Mahatma Gandhi played a central role in its success. The movement marked a critical point in the Indian freedom struggle as it involved mass participation and non-violent resistance to British colonial rule. 

1. Launch of the Salt March:
Gandhi initiated the Civil Disobedience Movement with the famous Salt March (Dandi March) in March 1930. He led a 240-mile march from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi to produce salt from seawater, defying the British monopoly on salt production. This was a clear act of civil disobedience, challenging the unjust laws imposed by the British. 

2. Mass Participation and Non-Violent Protest:
Gandhi’s approach was rooted in the principle of non-violence (ahimsa). He called upon the Indian masses to engage in peaceful protests, including boycotting foreign goods, refusing to pay taxes, and participating in strikes. This widespread participation made the movement highly effective, even though it involved significant personal sacrifices for many participants. 

3. Role of the Congress and Gandhian Leadership:
The Indian National Congress (INC), under Gandhi’s leadership, wholeheartedly supported the Civil Disobedience Movement. Gandhi’s appeal for non-cooperation with the British administration resonated deeply with the Indian people. The movement united people from diverse backgrounds and brought the issue of India’s independence to the forefront of global attention. 

4. Repression by the British:
The British government responded to the movement with harsh repression. Thousands of Indians were arrested, including Gandhi himself. The British also used violence to suppress protests. Despite this, the movement gained international attention and increased pressure on the British government to address the demand for Indian independence. 

5. Impact and Legacy:
Although the Civil Disobedience Movement did not immediately result in independence, it was a major turning point in the Indian freedom struggle. It demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance and increased the popularity of the INC, bringing India’s struggle for freedom to global prominence. 

Conclusion:
The Civil Disobedience Movement, under Gandhiji’s leadership, was instrumental in mobilizing millions of Indians for the cause of independence. It was a significant chapter in India’s struggle against colonial rule and helped lay the foundation for future movements leading to India’s independence in 1947.