Introduction
The Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 was Mahatma Gandhi’s first major political campaign in India. It took place in Champaran district in Bihar and is considered a turning point in India’s freedom struggle. It was a non-violent protest against the exploitation of indigo farmers by British planters.
Background
Under the “Tinkathia System,” farmers in Champaran were forced to grow indigo on a portion of their land and sell it at very low prices to British planters. This caused poverty and hardship for the farmers. Rajkumar Shukla, a local farmer, invited Gandhi to visit Champaran and help the people.
Gandhi’s Role
- He conducted a detailed investigation into the conditions of the farmers.
- He defied British orders to leave Champaran and insisted on staying to help the farmers.
- He organized legal aid and mobilized volunteers to educate and support villagers.
Results of the Satyagraha
- The British government was forced to form a committee to examine the grievances of the farmers.
- The exploitative Tinkathia system was abolished.
- It showed the power of non-violent protest and Gandhi’s leadership in action.
Significance
The Champaran Satyagraha marked the beginning of Gandhi’s active involvement in India’s freedom movement. It was a successful use of non-violence and civil disobedience to bring social and political change. It also empowered farmers and ordinary people to raise their voices against injustice.