Question

(b) Examine the causes and events of Civil Disobedience Movement.

Hint:

Highlight symbolic events like the Dandi March and their impact on mass mobilization and global attention.

Answer 1

The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–1934) was a pivotal period in India's fight for independence, characterized by widespread public involvement and significant occurrences.
Reasons: Simon Commission (1927): The exclusion of Indians from the Simon Commission generated considerable discontent and protests. 
Call for Purna Swaraj: The Lahore Congress of 1929 designated complete independence as its objective, escalating nationalist fervor. 
Salt Levy: The burdensome salt tax became a symbol of British exploitation, affecting all Indians. 
Major Events: Dandi March (1930): Mahatma Gandhi's 240-mile trek to Dandi to produce salt directly challenged British regulations and spurred similar nationwide demonstrations. 
Boycotts and Tax Refusal: Indians boycotted British merchandise, educational institutions, and legislative bodies, while simultaneously refusing to pay taxes. 
Women's Involvement: Prominent women such as Sarojini Naidu and Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay actively participated, increasing female engagement in the freedom struggle. 
Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931): This agreement temporarily halted the movement, with the British agreeing to release political detainees and permit peaceful demonstrations. 
British Suppression: Despite peaceful protests, the British responded with arrests and violence, leading to the imprisonment of leaders like Gandhi and Nehru. 
Outcomes: Mass Mobilization: The movement unified Indians irrespective of caste, religion, or gender, thereby strengthening the nationalist cause. 
International Recognition: The Civil Disobedience Movement attracted global attention to India’s quest for independence. 
Basis for Future Campaigns: It laid the groundwork for subsequent initiatives such as the Quit India Movement of 1942. The Civil Disobedience Movement showcased the efficacy of non-violent resistance and marked a significant step in India’s path to self-governance.