Question

"The Gandhian idea of Satyagraha, emphasised the power of truth and struggle against injustice." Explain the statement with examples.

Answer 1

Gandhian satyagraha focused on the potency of truth and the non-violent resistance to diverse types of injustice, including social, economic, and political. 

1. Champaran Satyagraha (1917): Gandhi's support for the farmers in Champaran, Bihar, in their fight against abusive indigo planters, showed how truth can speak out against economic abuse and help people fight it. 
2. Ahmedabad Mill Workers' Strike (1918): Gandhi supported striking mill workers in Ahmedabad, emphasizing the need for fair wages and improved working conditions.
3. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Gandhi called for non-cooperation with British institutions as a protest against the repressive Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
4. Salt Satyagraha (1930): Gandhi's march to the Arabian Sea to protest the British salt monopoly demonstrated the power of truth and nonviolent resistance against an unfair levy on salt. The march sought to criticise repressive policies and encourage self-reliance.
5. Quit India Movement (1942): Gandhi spearheaded the Quit India Movement, which intended to push the British to leave India. Nonviolent protests and civil disobedience highlighted the importance of truth and the fight against colonial oppression, demonstrating the strength of mass movements in gaining political independence.