( AST/TMA/2022-23 )
Answer:
The Civil Disobedience Movement, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, was a pivotal chapter in India’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule. This nonviolent resistance movement unfolded in multiple stages, each marked by different strategies, events, and consequences. Below, we describe the various stages of the Civil Disobedience Movement:
1. Background and Prelude:
The early 1930s saw widespread discontent in India due to the economic hardships caused by the Great Depression and the failure of constitutional negotiations.
Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian National Congress, believed it was time to launch a mass protest against British oppression.
2. Declaration of Intent (March 12, 1930):
Mahatma Gandhi embarked on the famous Dandi March, a 240-mile journey to the Arabian Sea, along with a group of followers.
The march symbolized the breach of the Salt Laws imposed by the British, as salt production and sale were strictly regulated and taxed.
3. Mass Participation (March to April 1930):
The Dandi March inspired millions of Indians to participate in acts of civil disobedience across the country.
People began to manufacture salt illegally, attend protest meetings, and boycott British-made goods.
4. Breaking Salt Laws (April 6, 1930):
Mahatma Gandhi reached the coastal town of Dandi on April 6, where he defied the Salt Laws by making salt from seawater.
This symbolic act marked the formal launch of the Civil Disobedience Movement.
5. Widespread Protests and Boycotts:
The movement gained momentum as people started boycotting foreign cloth, liquor, and government institutions.
Local leaders initiated protests, strikes, and non-cooperation activities against British authorities.
6. Repressive Measures and Arrests:
The British colonial government responded with harsh measures, including arrests of prominent leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel.
The arrest of Gandhi led to widespread protests and the launch of the “Gandhi-Irwin Pact” negotiations.
7. Negotiations (March 1931):
The British Viceroy, Lord Irwin, initiated talks with Gandhi to end the Civil Disobedience Movement.
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact resulted in concessions, including the release of political prisoners and the participation of Congress in the Round Table Conferences.
8. Suspension of the Movement (May 1931):
In light of the pact and a desire to maintain peaceful negotiations, Mahatma Gandhi suspended the Civil Disobedience Movement.
However, tensions persisted as the British government did not fully meet the demands of the Indian National Congress.
9. Resumption and Second Round Table Conference (1932):
In response to the failure of negotiations and the continued repressive measures by the British, the Civil Disobedience Movement was resumed.
The second Round Table Conference in London sought to address India’s constitutional future but made limited progress.
10. Conclusion and Outcomes:
- The Civil Disobedience Movement, while marked by several stages and events, ultimately accelerated the process of India’s independence struggle.
- It showcased the power of nonviolent resistance and mass mobilization.
- Although the movement itself did not immediately lead to independence, it significantly weakened British rule in India and contributed to the eventual freedom of the country in 1947.
The Civil Disobedience Movement was a turning point in the Indian freedom struggle, demonstrating the strength of Indian unity and resolve against colonial oppression. It inspired subsequent movements and laid the foundation for the larger Quit India Movement in 1942, which played a crucial role in India achieving independence.