Why did Mahatm a Gandhi support the Khilafat issue?a)To protest agains...
If non-cooperation was effectiv ely carried out, said Gandhiji, India would win swaraj within a year. To further broaden the struggle he had joined hands with the Khilafat Movement that sought to restore the Caliphate, a symbol of Pan-Islamism which had recently been abolished by the Turkish ruler Kemal Attaturk.
Why did Mahatm a Gandhi support the Khilafat issue?a)To protest agains...
Introduction to the Khilafat Movement
The Khilafat Movement emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and the perceived injustices against the Caliphate, which was a significant symbol of Islamic unity. Mahatma Gandhi recognized the potential of this movement to unite diverse Indian communities against British colonial rule.
Reasons for Gandhi's Support
- Unity of Hindus and Muslims: Gandhi believed that supporting the Khilafat issue could foster unity between Hindus and Muslims in India. By championing a common cause, he aimed to bridge communal divides and strengthen the national movement against British imperialism.
- Non-Violent Resistance: Gandhi sought to employ non-violent methods to mobilize the masses. Supporting the Khilafat Movement allowed him to advocate for peaceful protests and civil disobedience, creating a platform for collective action.
- Symbolic Resistance to Colonial Rule: The British government's treatment of the Ottoman Caliphate was seen as an affront to Muslims. By aligning with the Khilafat cause, Gandhi aimed to galvanize Indian sentiment against British oppression, positioning it as a broader struggle for self-determination.
- International Solidarity: Gandhi viewed the Khilafat Movement as part of a larger global struggle against colonialism. By supporting it, he sought to connect the Indian independence movement with the global fight for justice and rights.
Conclusion
Gandhi's endorsement of the Khilafat issue was a strategic move to unite Indians across religious lines, create a collective front against British rule, and emphasize the importance of non-violent resistance. Through this alliance, he aimed to foster a sense of shared purpose and solidarity among all Indians in the quest for independence.