The Issue Delivered by Colonial Rulers to Gandhiji in 1919

Introduction: Mahatma Gandhi was one of the prominent leaders of India's freedom struggle against British colonial rule. His non-violent approach to civil disobedience and peaceful protests inspired many to join the movement for independence.

The Issue: In 1919, the colonial rulers delivered an issue into Gandhiji's lap that would change the course of India's freedom struggle. It was the Rowlatt Act, also known as the Black Act, which gave the British government the power to arrest and detain anyone without trial for up to two years.

The Impact: This act was seen as an attack on civil liberties and a violation of basic human rights. Gandhiji saw it as an opportunity to mobilize the masses and launch a movement against the British rule.

The Response: In response to the Rowlatt Act, Gandhiji called for a nationwide strike and protest, which he called the Non-Cooperation Movement. The movement was based on non-violent civil disobedience and aimed to put pressure on the British government to repeal the act.

The Result: The Non-Cooperation Movement was a massive success, with millions of Indians joining the protest. However, the movement was called off after violence erupted in Chauri Chaura, where a police station was set on fire, resulting in the deaths of 22 policemen. Gandhiji felt that non-violent protests had failed and called off the movement.

Conclusion: The Rowlatt Act was a turning point in India's freedom struggle, and it was the issue that delivered a massive opportunity into Gandhiji's lap. His response to the act, the Non-Cooperation Movement, was the largest mass movement in India's history and paved the way for future protests against the British colonial rule.