Why was the non cooperation movement started and called off?
Introduction:
The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant event in the Indian independence struggle against British colonial rule. It was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 with the aim of achieving complete independence for India. The movement gained widespread support across the country and played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses.
Reasons for starting the Non-Cooperation Movement:
1. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: The brutal incident of Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919, where British troops fired upon a peaceful gathering, resulted in the loss of hundreds of innocent lives. This event deeply disturbed and outraged the Indian population, leading to a surge in nationalist sentiments.
2. Rowlatt Act: The passage of the Rowlatt Act in 1919, which allowed for the arrest and detention of Indians without trial, further fueled the discontent among the people. The Act was seen as repressive and undemocratic, leading to widespread protests.
3. Khilafat Movement: The Khilafat Movement, which sought to protect the Ottoman Caliphate and the rights of Muslims, gained significant support from Indian Muslims. Mahatma Gandhi recognized the potential of uniting Hindus and Muslims in the struggle against British rule and decided to lend his support to the Khilafat Movement.
Objectives of the Non-Cooperation Movement:
1. Withdrawal from British institutions: The movement aimed to boycott British educational institutions, law courts, and administrative services. Indians were encouraged to resign from government jobs and refuse to pay taxes.
2. Promotion of Swadeshi: The movement advocated for the use of indigenous goods and the boycott of British-made products. People were encouraged to spin their own cloth (Khadi) and boycott foreign textiles.
3. Civil disobedience: The movement encouraged non-violent protests, strikes, and non-cooperation with British authorities. People were urged to peacefully protest against British policies and injustices.
Reasons for calling off the Non-Cooperation Movement:
1. Chauri Chaura Incident: The Non-Cooperation Movement took a violent turn when protestors in Chauri Chaura clashed with the police, resulting in the death of 22 policemen. Mahatma Gandhi, who believed in non-violence, was deeply disturbed by this incident and called off the movement as a result.
2. Lack of discipline: The movement witnessed instances of violence, arson, and destruction of public property. Gandhi believed that the movement had lost its non-violent character and needed to be suspended to prevent further bloodshed.
3. Strategic considerations: Gandhi realized that the movement needed more extensive preparation and training to sustain itself. He believed that the Indian population was not yet ready for a full-fledged mass struggle and that a premature movement would lead to failure.
Conclusion:
The Non-Cooperation Movement was a significant milestone in India's fight for independence. It was started to protest against British atrocities and gain freedom. However, due to the Chauri Chaura incident and concerns about the movement's discipline and preparedness, Mahatma Gandhi decided to call it off. Nevertheless, the Non-Cooperation Movement served as a catalyst for future movements and inspired millions to actively participate in the struggle for independence.
Why was the non cooperation movement started and called off?
Gandhi feared that the movement might lead to popular violence. The non-cooperation movement was launched on 1 August 1920. ... On 12 February 1922, the Indian National Congress halted the Non-cooperation Movement on the national level as a direct result of the Chauri Chaura tragedy.
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