Explain Civil Disobedience Movement.
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Explain Civil Disobedience Movement.
The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, was a pivotal chapter in the Indian independence struggle against British colonial rule. The movement aimed to challenge unjust laws and policies through nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, emphasizing the principles of truth (Satya) and nonviolence (Ahimsa).
Key features of the Civil Disobedience Movement include:
Salt March: The movement was launched with the iconic Salt March or Dandi March in March-April 1930. Gandhi, along with a group of followers, marched about 240 miles to the Arabian Sea, symbolically breaking the British salt laws by producing salt from seawater. This act was a powerful symbol of defiance against oppressive British taxation policies on salt.
Nonviolent Resistance: The movement encouraged Indians to peacefully resist British laws and policies by refusing to cooperate with the government. Participants engaged in acts of civil disobedience, such as the refusal to pay taxes, boycott of British goods, and the violation of salt laws. The emphasis on nonviolence distinguished the movement from previous protests.
Mass Participation: The Civil Disobedience Movement witnessed widespread participation from various sections of Indian society, including peasants, students, and women. It turned into a mass movement, with people across the country joining the cause, making it one of the largest and most inclusive phases of the independence struggle.
Dharasana Satyagraha: One of the notable events during the movement was the Dharasana Salt Works protest in May 1930. Led by Sarojini Naidu and other leaders, protesters peacefully marched towards the Dharasana salt pans in Gujarat, facing violent repression from the police. The demonstration showcased the resilience and commitment of the participants.
End of the Movement: The Civil Disobedience Movement officially concluded in 1931 after negotiations between Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India. The resulting Gandhi-Irwin Pact led to the suspension of the movement, the release of political prisoners, and the participation of the Indian National Congress in the Second Round Table Conference in London.
The Civil Disobedience Movement had a profound impact on the Indian independence struggle, demonstrating the potential of nonviolent resistance in achieving political objectives. It brought the issues of Indian self-rule to the forefront of international attention, inspiring similar movements for justice and freedom worldwide. The movement's legacy continued to influence subsequent phases of the independence struggle and shaped the ethos of nonviolence in India's quest for freedom.