Why did Gandhiji decide to launch a nationwide ‘Satyagraha’

• Nationalism in India (C10)

Why did Gandhiji decide to launch a nationwide ‘Satyagraha’ against the proposed Rowlatt Act (1919)? How was it opposed ? Explain.

Answer

Gandhi ji decided to launch a nation-wide Satyagraha:

1. This act had been hurriedly passed through the Imperial Legislative Council.

2. Indian members opposed the act.

3. It gave the government enormous powers to repress political activities.

4. It allowed detention of political prisoners without trial for two years.

It opposed in the following ways:

1. Rallies were organized in various cities.

2. Workers went on strike.

3. Shops were closed.

4. Communication, railway, telegraphs lines were disrupted.