Discuss how the Satyagrahas of Gandhi removed the spell of fear among Indians and thus knocked off an important pillar of imperialism.

The Psychological Landscape of Colonial India

British rule in India was characterized by a deliberate strategy to instill fear and dependence. Laws like the Sedition Act of 1908 and the repressive measures following the 1857 Revolt were designed to suppress dissent and discourage any challenge to colonial authority. The Indian Penal Code, with its harsh punishments, further reinforced this fear. This created a climate where Indians were hesitant to openly oppose the government, fearing retribution and loss of livelihood. The economic exploitation also contributed to a sense of helplessness and powerlessness.

Early Satyagrahas: Building Confidence (1917-1922)

Gandhi’s initial Satyagrahas in Champaran (1917), Kheda (1918), and Ahmedabad (1918) were crucial in demonstrating the power of non-violent resistance and building confidence among Indians.

• Champaran Satyagraha: Gandhi’s intervention on behalf of indigo farmers against exploitative British planters showed Indians that it was possible to challenge the authorities without resorting to violence. The farmers, previously intimidated by the planters, found courage in Gandhi’s leadership and support.
• Kheda Satyagraha: This movement, supporting peasants facing famine and high taxes, further demonstrated the effectiveness of non-violent resistance. It instilled a sense of unity and self-reliance among the farmers.
• Ahmedabad Mill Strike: Gandhi’s support for striking textile workers highlighted the importance of peaceful negotiation and collective action. It empowered the working class and demonstrated their ability to demand fair treatment.

These early successes, though localized, were significant in breaking the initial spell of fear and demonstrating the potential of Satyagraha.

The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Broadening Participation

The Non-Cooperation Movement marked a turning point in the Indian freedom struggle. Gandhi called upon Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and titles. This movement witnessed widespread participation from all sections of society – students, lawyers, teachers, and peasants.

• Boycott of Schools and Colleges: Students actively left British-run educational institutions, establishing national schools and colleges. This demonstrated a willingness to sacrifice personal opportunities for the sake of the nation.
• Boycott of Foreign Goods: The burning of foreign cloth became a symbol of defiance and self-reliance. This encouraged the growth of the Swadeshi movement and promoted Indian industries.
• Renunciation of Titles: Many Indians voluntarily surrendered their titles and honors conferred by the British government, signifying their rejection of colonial authority.

While the movement was ultimately suspended due to incidents of violence, it had successfully mobilized a large section of the Indian population and instilled a sense of national pride and self-confidence.

The Salt Satyagraha (1930): A Symbolic Challenge

The Salt Satyagraha, also known as the Dandi March, was a watershed moment in the Indian freedom struggle. Gandhi’s defiance of the British salt laws, a symbol of colonial oppression, resonated deeply with the Indian masses.

• Mass Civil Disobedience: The march to Dandi and the subsequent breaking of salt laws across the country led to mass arrests and imprisonment. However, it also demonstrated the Indians’ unwavering commitment to non-violent resistance.
• International Attention: The Salt Satyagraha garnered international attention, exposing the brutality of British rule and garnering support for the Indian independence movement.
• Erosion of Fear: The willingness of ordinary Indians, including women and children, to court arrest and endure hardship shattered the myth of British invincibility and further eroded the fear of colonial authority.

The Quit India Movement (1942): The Final Push

The Quit India Movement, launched during World War II, was the most radical and widespread Satyagraha movement. Gandhi’s call for “Do or Die” inspired Indians to take direct action against British rule.

• Underground Resistance: Following the arrest of Congress leaders, a widespread underground resistance movement emerged, with young activists engaging in sabotage and disrupting communication networks.
• Mass Protests: Despite brutal repression, mass protests and demonstrations continued across the country, demonstrating the Indians’ determination to achieve independence.
• Weakening of British Resolve: The Quit India Movement significantly weakened British resolve and demonstrated that India could no longer be governed effectively without the cooperation of its people.

The movement, though suppressed, proved that the fear of British rule had been largely overcome, and Indians were prepared to fight for their freedom, even at the cost of their lives.