Question

Why did Gandhi agree to a settlement of 25 per cent refund to the farmers? (Indigo)

Hint:

Remember: Gandhi accepted 25% not as a compromise but as a strategic victory. He understood that breaking the planters' prestige and empowering the farmers was more important than the monetary amount.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This relates to the Champaran Satyagraha in the chapter "Indigo." The focus is on the moral victory rather than the financial one.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The British planters expected Gandhi to demand a full 100% refund of the extorted money.
When they offered only 25%, Gandhi accepted it to break the deadlock.
Gandhi explained that the actual percentage of the money was secondary.
The real victory was that the powerful British landlords had been humbled and forced to return money, which symbolized a loss of their absolute authority and prestige.
It gave the peasants courage and the realization that they had rights and defenders.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Gandhi accepted the 25% refund to ensure the moral defeat of the British planters and to instill confidence in the farmers.