Introduction:
Gandhiji started the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920 as a way to protest against British colonial rule in India. It was a significant step in India's struggle for independence and aimed to unite people against British oppression.

Reasons for starting the Non-Cooperation Movement:
1. Jallianwala Bagh massacre: One of the main reasons for starting the Non-Cooperation Movement was the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. In April 1919, British troops under the command of General Dyer opened fire on a peaceful gathering of Indians in Amritsar, resulting in the death of hundreds of people. This incident deeply angered Gandhiji and he believed that it was time to take a stronger stance against British rule.

2. Rowlatt Act: The Rowlatt Act, enacted by the British government in 1919, gave the colonial authorities the power to arrest and detain Indians without trial. This act was seen as a violation of civil liberties and Gandhiji saw it as an opportunity to mobilize the masses against British rule.

3. Khilafat Movement: The Khilafat Movement, which sought to support the Caliphate in Turkey, was led by the Ali brothers and supported by Gandhiji. He saw it as an opportunity to unite Hindus and Muslims against British rule. However, when the British government failed to meet the demands of the Khilafat leaders, Gandhiji decided to launch the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Objectives of the Non-Cooperation Movement:
1. Boycott of British goods: Gandhiji called for a boycott of British goods as a means to economically weaken the British Raj. He urged people to stop buying British textiles, salt, and other products, and instead support locally made Indian goods.

2. Non-cooperation with British institutions: Gandhiji called for people to withdraw their cooperation from British institutions such as schools, colleges, and law courts. He encouraged Indians to set up their own educational institutions and to resolve disputes through non-violent means.

3. Civil disobedience: The Non-Cooperation Movement also included acts of civil disobedience such as protests, strikes, and non-payment of taxes. Gandhiji believed in the power of peaceful resistance and encouraged people to peacefully defy British laws and regulations.

Impact and conclusion:
The Non-Cooperation Movement had a significant impact on the Indian independence movement. It united Indians from different backgrounds and gave them a sense of collective identity and purpose. The boycott of British goods and institutions hit the British economically and politically. However, the movement was called off in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident, where a protest turned violent and resulted in the death of police officers. Despite its premature end, the Non-Cooperation Movement marked a turning point in India's struggle for independence and laid the foundation for future movements led by Gandhiji.

Why did Gandhiji start Non-Cooperation Movement? Explain.