The industrial working classes did not participate in the Civil Disobedience Movement in large numbers, except in the Nagpur region. This was because industrialists were supporting the Movement and Congress was reluctant to include workers’ demand as part of the Movement.
Demands of workers
(i) They demanded higher wages.
(ii) They demanded proper working condition

Introduction:

The civil disobedience movement in India was a significant phase of the Indian independence movement against British rule. It was led by Mahatma Gandhi and aimed to challenge and protest against the unjust laws and policies imposed by the British government. The movement involved various sections of society, including Indian industries, which actively participated in this nonviolent resistance movement.

Participation of Indian Industries:

1. Boycott of British goods:
- Indian industries played a crucial role in promoting the boycott of British goods during the civil disobedience movement.
- They encouraged people to purchase and use Indian products instead, promoting the concept of swadeshi (self-reliance).
- This led to a decline in the demand for British goods and a boost in indigenous industries, promoting economic independence.

2. Production of Khadi:
- One of the significant contributions of Indian industries during the civil disobedience movement was the production of khadi, a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric.
- Khadi was seen as a symbol of self-reliance, self-sufficiency, and resistance against British economic exploitation.
- Industries across the country actively participated in producing khadi, empowering local weavers and promoting rural employment.

3. Funding and support:
- Indian industrialists, such as Jamnalal Bajaj, G.D. Birla, and Purshottamdas Thakurdas, provided financial support to the civil disobedience movement.
- They donated funds for various activities, including organizing protests, printing literature, and organizing boycott campaigns.
- Industrialists also offered their support by providing logistical assistance, organizing public meetings, and mobilizing resources.

4. Non-cooperation with the British government:
- Indian industries demonstrated their non-cooperation with the British government by refusing to pay taxes and support its policies.
- They actively participated in the hartals (strikes) and picketing campaigns, disrupting British administration and economic activities.
- Industries also refused to participate in official events and ceremonies organized by the British government, expressing their solidarity with the movement.

5. Propagation of Gandhian principles:
- Indian industries played a crucial role in spreading the principles of nonviolence and civil disobedience advocated by Mahatma Gandhi.
- They promoted these ideas through their publications, public speeches, and social gatherings.
- Industrialists actively engaged in discussions and debates, highlighting the importance of peaceful resistance and the need for Indian independence.

Conclusion:

The participation of Indian industries in the civil disobedience movement was instrumental in challenging British rule and promoting the idea of self-reliance. Through their support and active involvement, industries helped in creating a sense of unity, economic empowerment, and a collective struggle for independence. Their contributions played a significant role in shaping the movement and ultimately leading India towards freedom.