Question

What was Chauri Chaura incident?

Hint:

The Chauri Chaura incident led to Gandhi calling off the non-cooperation movement, marking a key moment in the Indian struggle for independence.

Answer 1

The Chauri Chaura incident took place on February 4, 1922, in the village of Chauri Chaura in Uttar Pradesh. It was a significant event in the Indian independence movement, and it led to a turning point in Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership of the non-cooperation movement. Below is an explanation of the incident:
Step 1: The Incident.
On that day, a group of non-cooperation movement activists clashed with the police. The protesters, who had been agitating against the British authorities, were met with violent repression by the police. In retaliation, the protesters set fire to a police station, killing 22 policemen inside.
Step 2: Gandhi's Response.
Gandhi, who was leading the non-cooperation movement, was shocked by the violence of the Chauri Chaura incident. He strongly believed in non-violence (Ahimsa) as the cornerstone of the freedom struggle. In response to the violence, Gandhi decided to call off the non-cooperation movement, which had gained significant momentum until then. This was a significant decision, as it marked a temporary halt to the non-violent movement against British rule.
Step 3: Consequences of the Incident.
The Chauri Chaura incident highlighted the challenges of maintaining non-violence during a mass movement. It also brought attention to the emotional intensity of the struggle, as it exposed the deep resentment among the masses against British rule. Although the movement was temporarily suspended, the incident had a lasting impact on the Indian freedom movement, leading to greater resolve for independence in the following years.