The Salt March, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, was act of nonviolent civil disobedience in India. Led by Mahatma Gandhi, it took place from 12 March to 6 April 1930. The march protested against the British salt monopoly and tax. It became a very important moment in the Indian independence movement.
Background
By 1930, the Indian National Congress aimed for complete independence, termed Poorna Swarajya. The Congress observed 26 January as Poorna Swarajya Day. Gandhi was tasked with organising the first act of civil disobedience. He chose the salt tax as a focus. The tax affected all Indians, especially the poor. The British Salt Act of 1882 had given the British government monopoly over salt production. Violating the act was a criminal offence. This made Gandhi’s choice both impactful and relatable. The salt tax contributed to British revenue, making it a strategic target.
Planning the March
On 2 March 1930, Gandhi informed Lord Irwin of his plan. He would lead a group from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, a coastal village in Gujarat. The aim was to produce salt from seawater, thus defying the Salt Act. Gandhi began with 80 followers, instructing them to remain nonviolent. As the march progressed, thousands joined. The route from Sabarmati to Ahmedabad saw immense public interest. Gandhi addressed crowds daily, criticising British rule. His speeches attracted international media attention, raising awareness of India’s struggle.
The March Begins
The march commenced on 12 March 1930. Gandhi and his followers walked through numerous villages. Each day, more participants joined. By 5 April, around 50,000 people had gathered. The march became a symbol of unity among Indians. On 6 April 1930, Gandhi made salt from seawater, officially breaking the law. This act inspired many others to do the same. The movement gained momentum rapidly.
Government Response
The British government reacted strongly. Approximately 60,000 people, including Gandhi, were arrested. Civil disobedience spread beyond salt to other laws, such as forest and land taxes. The Congress Party was declared illegal. Despite this, the movement continued. There were incidents of violence in cities like Calcutta and Karachi. However, Gandhi did not call off the movement. Other leaders, like C Rajagopalachari and K Kelappan, organised similar marches in different regions. This widespread participation brought into light the movement’s reach.
Role of Women and Other Participants
Women played important role in the Salt Satyagraha. Many participated actively in protests and marches. The movement also saw participation from various social groups, including the depressed classes. Boycotts of foreign goods were widespread. Liquor shops faced picketing. Strikes occurred across the country. The movement united diverse sections of society against British rule.
Notable Incidents
One event was the protest at Dharasana Salt Works on 21 May 1930. Sarojini Naidu led peaceful protestors there. The police responded violently, resulting in deaths and injuries. This brutality garnered international media attention. The event brought into light the oppressive nature of British rule in India. It also demonstrated the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance.
Impact on Indian Independence Movement
The Salt March had several key effects. It brought the Indian independence struggle into global focus. The movement united many Indians, including women and lower castes. The nonviolent approach showcased the power of Satyagraha. It became a model for future protests. The movement also put pressure on the British government, leading to negotiations.
Gandhi-Irwin Pact
In 1931, Gandhi was released from prison. He met Lord Irwin to discuss the ongoing civil disobedience movement. The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was established. Under this agreement, the civil disobedience movement would end. Indians were allowed to make salt for personal use. The British government agreed to release arrested individuals. This pact marked step in the independence movement.
Limitations of the Movement
Despite its successes, the Salt Satyagraha had limitations. It did not secure major concessions from the British government. Muslim support was also limited, affecting the movement’s unity. The movement’s focus on salt did not resonate with all sections of society. Some viewed it as too simplistic in the broader struggle for independence.
Legacy
The Salt March remains a landmark event in Indian history. It exemplified the power of nonviolent resistance. Gandhi’s leadership inspired future generations. The movement laid the groundwork for subsequent actions in the independence struggle. It brought into light the importance of collective action against oppression.
