5.3.1. Causes

● Rowlatt Act (1919) – allowed arrest without trial

The Rowlatt Act, enacted in 1919, was a significant piece of legislation imposed by the British government in India. It allowed the authorities to arrest and detain individuals without trial for extended periods, thus severely restricting the civil liberties of Indians. This act was seen as an oppressive measure that intensified the feelings of unrest and anger among the Indian populace, as it curtailed their rights and freedoms.

Imagine living in a place where the government could arrest you simply for speaking against it, without any opportunity for a fair trial or a chance to defend yourself. Just like students might feel frustrated and trapped under unjust school rules, Indian citizens felt similarly oppressed under the Rowlatt Act, leading them to unite against such laws.

● Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919)

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre occurred in April 1919, when British troops, led by General Dyer, opened fire on a large gathering of unarmed Indian civilians in Amritsar. The crowd had gathered to protest against the Rowlatt Act and express their grievances. This brutal act of violence resulted in the deaths of hundreds of innocents and highlighted the cruel repressive policies of British colonial rule. The massacre shocked the Indian public and mobilized many to join the struggle for independence.

Think of a situation where a group of friends peacefully gathers to voice their opinions, only to be met with hostility and aggression. The Jallianwala Bagh incident was like that, but on a much larger scale, where innocent protestors were met with bullets, making people across India realize how far the British government would go to suppress dissent.

● Khilafat Movement – support for Caliph of Turkey

The Khilafat Movement emerged during the same period and aimed to protect the position of the Caliph, the spiritual leader of Muslims worldwide, who was seen as under threat after World War I. Indian Muslims, led by leaders like Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali, sought to defend the Caliphate against disintegration. The Khilafat Movement gained significant support from Indian Muslims and allied with the Indian National Congress, showcasing a unified front of Hindus and Muslims against British rule.

Imagine a team that rallies together to support their coach who is facing unfair treatment, with everyone from players to fans standing together for a common cause. The Khilafat Movement was that kind of unification for Indian Muslims, as they rallied not only for their religious leader but also joined forces with other Indian communities to fight colonial rule.

● Gandhi’s call for peaceful non-cooperation

In light of these events, Gandhi called for the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, urging Indians to consciously withdraw from cooperating with the British authorities. He advocated for peaceful resistance, emphasizing non-violence as a method to challenge British rule. This call resonated deeply with Indians from various backgrounds and encouraged them to boycott British institutions and goods in solidarity.

Think of a community working together to boycott a store that is unfair or exploitative. When individuals refuse to buy a product or support a service they believe is wrong, it can create powerful change. Gandhi encouraged Indians to do just that on a national scale, taking a stand without resorting to violence.

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