Question

Why was Champaran Satyagraha launched?

Hint:

The Champaran Satyagraha was launched by Gandhi in response to the exploitation of indigo farmers and is considered the first successful application of non-violent resistance in India.

Answer 1

The Champaran Satyagraha was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917 in the Champaran district of Bihar. It was Gandhi’s first active involvement in Indian politics and marked a significant turning point in the Indian independence movement. The Satyagraha was initiated for the following reasons:
Step 1: Exploitation of Indigo Farmers.
The primary cause of the Champaran Satyagraha was the exploitation of the indigo farmers in the Champaran region. The British landlords forced the farmers to grow indigo on their land and sell it at very low prices. This system led to extreme poverty and hardship for the farmers, who were often forced into debt.
Step 2: Gandhi's Role.
When Gandhi learned about the plight of the indigo farmers, he visited Champaran and led a peaceful movement to protest against the oppressive policies of the British landlords. Gandhi encouraged the farmers to resist the oppressive system using non-violent means. The Satyagraha aimed to pressure the government into implementing reforms and ending the exploitation of farmers.
Step 3: Success of the Movement.
The movement was a success as it forced the British government to set up an inquiry into the conditions of the farmers and introduced reforms that alleviated their suffering. The Champaran Satyagraha also marked the beginning of Gandhi's leadership in the Indian freedom movement and his development of Satyagraha as a powerful tool for social and political change.