The Various Stages of the Non Cooperation Movement

The Non Cooperation Movement was a significant phase in the Indian independence struggle led by Mahatma Gandhi. It aimed to challenge British colonial rule by employing peaceful means of protest and nonviolent resistance. The movement had several stages, each marked by specific events and objectives.

1. Launch of the Movement
- The Non Cooperation Movement was launched on 1st August 1920 during the special session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta.
- Mahatma Gandhi was chosen as the leader of the movement, and he advocated for nonviolent resistance against British rule.
- The movement aimed to unite all sections of Indian society, including peasants, workers, and students.

2. Boycott of Institutions
- One of the key strategies of the Non Cooperation Movement was the boycott of British institutions and goods.
- Indians were asked to withdraw from government services, schools, colleges, and courts.
- People were encouraged to boycott British-made clothes, burn foreign cloth, and spin their own khadi (handspun cloth) as a symbol of self-reliance and independence.

3. Mass Demonstrations and Protests
- The movement saw widespread participation in mass demonstrations and protests across the country.
- People organized marches, picketed liquor shops, and staged hartals (strikes).
- Demonstrations often turned violent, leading to clashes with the police and instances of arson.

4. Suspension of Civil Disobedience
- The movement faced a setback in 1922 when a violent incident occurred in Chauri Chaura, Uttar Pradesh.
- A group of protesters set fire to a police station, resulting in the death of 22 policemen.
- Mahatma Gandhi, deeply saddened by the violence, called off the Non Cooperation Movement as he believed that the movement had lost its nonviolent character.

5. Impact and Legacy
- Despite its premature end, the Non Cooperation Movement had a profound impact on the Indian freedom struggle.
- It awakened a sense of nationalism and unity among Indians.
- The boycott of British goods and institutions weakened the colonial economy and forced the British to acknowledge the strength of Indian resistance.
- The principles of nonviolence and civil disobedience laid down during this movement became the foundation for future campaigns led by Mahatma Gandhi, such as the Salt March and the Quit India Movement.

In conclusion, the Non Cooperation Movement had several stages, starting with its launch and the boycott of British institutions and goods. It gained momentum through mass demonstrations and protests but was eventually suspended due to the violence in Chauri Chaura. Despite its premature end, the movement had a lasting impact on the Indian freedom struggle, inspiring future campaigns and shaping the principles of nonviolent resistance.