Question

Mahatma Gandhiji was jailed and prosecuted by British regime in 1922 at Ahmedabad u/s 124(A) of IPC for

• A. Calling Hartal
• B. Breaching public peace and tranquillity
• C. Sedition and disaffection to the government
• D. None of the above

Hint:

Section 124A (Sedition) is a highly debated provision of the IPC. Remember its association with historical events like the trials of Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi, as well as modern controversies surrounding its use.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the specific charge under which Mahatma Gandhi was prosecuted in his famous 1922 trial. The question itself provides the section number, Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Step 2: Key Legal Provision:
Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, defines the offence of "Sedition."

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Section 124A of the IPC penalizes anyone who "brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards, the Government established by law in India." The core of the offence is creating disaffection against the government.
In 1922, following the Chauri Chaura incident which led to the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement, Mahatma Gandhi was arrested. He was prosecuted for writing three articles in his journal 'Young India' that were deemed seditious. In the trial, Gandhi famously pleaded guilty and made a powerful statement explaining why he had become a "deliberate disaffectionist" towards the British government, calling it his "duty to the people." Therefore, the charge was for sedition and causing disaffection to the government.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi was prosecuted under Section 124A of the IPC for sedition and disaffection to the government.