Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 306

Why did Gandhiji organise a Satyagraha in Ahmedabad Mill in 1918?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the socio-economic conditions of the workers in the Ahmedabad mills.

Correct Answer: B) To demand for a higher wages for workers.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Satyagraha movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, was a form of nonviolent resistance aimed at achieving social and political change. In 1918, Gandhi organized a Satyagraha in Ahmedabad, which was a significant event in the history of the Indian independence movement. The primary objective of this Satyagraha was to support the workers of the textile mills in Ahmedabad, who were demanding higher wages.

The workers in the Ahmedabad mills were facing severe economic hardships. Their wages were insufficient to meet the basic needs of their families, and the cost of living was rising. The mill owners, however, were reluctant to increase the wages, leading to a significant conflict between the workers and the management. Gandhi, who had a deep understanding of the socio-economic conditions of the workers, decided to support their cause by organizing a Satyagraha.

The Satyagraha in Ahmedabad was a peaceful protest that involved workers going on strike and refusing to work until their demands were met. Gandhi's involvement in the movement brought national attention to the plight of the workers and their struggle for better wages. The movement was successful in achieving its primary goal, as the mill owners eventually agreed to increase the wages of the workers.

Understanding the context of the Satyagraha in Ahmedabad is crucial for comprehending the broader implications of Gandhi's approach to social and economic justice. Gandhi believed in the power of nonviolent resistance to bring about change and used this method to support the workers' rights. The Satyagraha in Ahmedabad is a prime example of how Gandhi's principles of nonviolence and truth could be applied to address economic and social issues.

It is important to note that while poor working conditions were a concern, the primary focus of the Satyagraha was the economic struggle of the workers. The movement was not about protesting against high revenue demands or other unrelated issues. The success of the Satyagraha in Ahmedabad demonstrated the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance in achieving social and economic justice.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. While poor working conditions were a concern, the primary focus of the Satyagraha in Ahmedabad in 1918 was to demand higher wages for the workers. The protest was specifically aimed at addressing the economic grievances of the workers.
  • Option B: This option is correct. The Satyagraha in Ahmedabad in 1918 was primarily organized by Gandhi to demand higher wages for the workers in the textile mills. The workers were facing economic hardships and sought better compensation for their labor.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The protest was not related to high revenue demands. The issue at hand was the economic struggle of the workers and their demand for better wages.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The correct reason for the Satyagraha is clearly stated in Option B, which addresses the workers' demand for higher wages.

Mnemonic: GANDHI: Great Actions Needed for Dignity and Income

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