Reasons for the slowdown of the non-cooperation movement in cities:
1. Violence and repression:
- The non-cooperation movement faced violent incidents in cities, which led to a sense of fear among the urban population. The Chauri Chaura incident, where a group of protestors set fire to a police station, resulted in Gandhi calling off the movement as he believed it had taken a violent turn. This incident created a sense of unease among the people in cities, causing many to withdraw their support for the movement.
2. Lack of organizational structure:
- The non-cooperation movement lacked a strong organizational structure in cities, which made it difficult to sustain momentum. Without proper coordination and leadership at the local level, the movement struggled to mobilize support and carry out effective protests. This lack of organization made it easier for the authorities to suppress the movement in urban areas.
3. Economic hardships:
- The boycott of foreign goods and institutions as part of the non-cooperation movement had a significant impact on the urban population, leading to economic hardships. Many city dwellers, especially the middle class, found it difficult to sustain the boycott for an extended period. The economic strain caused by the boycotts and strikes made it challenging for people in cities to continue supporting the movement, leading to a slowdown in urban participation.
Overall, a combination of violence, lack of organization, and economic hardships contributed to the slowdown of the non-cooperation movement in cities.