Ghandi

Gandhi began a nationwide speaking campaign to enlist support for the non-cooperation movement. Indians were urged to boycott foreign goods, schools, law courts, official functions and the military. The Congress organization approved Gandhi's program and converted the movement into one whose official goal was the attainment of self-rule for India by peaceful and legitimate methods.

The Non-cooperation Movement was a significant phase in the Indian independence struggle led by Mahatma Gandhi from 1920 to 1922. Its primary objective was to resist British rule in India through nonviolent means by encouraging Indians to withdraw their cooperation from the British administration. The movement sought to undermine the British economy and administration in India and to ultimately pave the way for Indian self-rule (Swaraj).

Key Features of the Non-cooperation Movement:

1. Boycott of British Goods: Gandhi urged Indians to boycott British-made goods, promoting the use of Indian-made products (Swadeshi) instead. This not only affected the British economically but also encouraged the growth of Indian industries and self-reliance.

2. Boycott of British Institutions: The Non-cooperation Movement called for a boycott of British-run institutions, such as schools, colleges, and courts. Indians were encouraged to establish and support national educational institutions to reduce dependence on the colonial system.

3. Resignations from Government Positions: Indian government employees, including police officers and soldiers, were urged to resign from their positions as a way to weaken the British administration in India. Many prominent leaders, including members of the Indian National Congress, gave up their titles and honors bestowed by the British government.

4. Boycott of Elections: The Non-cooperation Movement advocated for a boycott of the 1920 elections to the legislative councils. By not participating in the elections, Indian leaders sought to delegitimize the British political system in India and demonstrate the lack of faith in the colonial government.

5. Peaceful Protests and Demonstrations: Mass protests, marches, and gatherings were organized throughout the country, with participants pledging to adhere to nonviolence and peaceful resistance. These events helped mobilize people from all walks of life, creating a sense of national unity and shared purpose.

The Non-cooperation Movement garnered widespread support from various sections of Indian society. However, it came to an abrupt end in 1922 after an incident in Chauri Chaura, where a mob of protesters set a police station on fire, resulting in the deaths of 22 policemen. Gandhi, deeply disturbed by the violence, called off the movement, as it went against his principles of nonviolence.

Although the Non-cooperation Movement did not achieve its immediate goal of Indian independence, it had several long-lasting effects:

1. It demonstrated the power of mass civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance as effective tools against oppressive rule.
2. It strengthened the Indian National Congress and united diverse sections of Indian society in their quest for independence.
3. It laid the foundation for future independence movements, such as the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement.
4. It popularized the idea of Swaraj and Swadeshi, fostering a sense of nationalism and self-reliance among Indians.

The Non-cooperation Movement played a crucial role in shaping India's struggle for independence and continues to serve as an inspiration for nonviolent resistance movements worldwide.