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Gandhi’s ideals of non-violence and communal harmony remain relevant 75 years after his assassination

GS Paper 1

Syllabus: Modern India – National Movement, Ethics- Gandhian Ethics

 

 

Context: The nation paid homage to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his 75th death anniversary (30th January 1948). The day is also observed as Martyrs’ Day.
 

Gandhiji’s role in Freedom Struggle:

Outside India:

  • Natal protest – Gandhi organized Indian resistance, fought anti-Indian legislation in the courts and led large protests against the colonial government.
  • Satyagraha Against registration certificates
  • It was in South Africa that Mahatma Gandhi first forged the distinctive techniques of non-violent protest known as Satyagraha.

  

In India:

  • Champaran Satyagraha (1917)
  • Ahmedabad mill strike (1918)
  • Kheda Satyagarha (1918)
  • Rowlatt Satyagraha
  • Khilafat and Non-cooperation movement
  • Civil disobedience movement
  • Protest against the Macdonald award
  • Quit India Movement

Gandhian Ethics: Follow the link below
Gandhian Ethics and Its Relevance Now

 

Conclusion:


As we celebrate the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, let us also recall how the Gandhian values of non-violence, inclusiveness and communal harmony enabled India to establish a unique democracy achieving momentous economic and social transformation through the ballot box rather than through the barrel of the gun.

 

 

Insta Curious:

 World Leprosy Day always takes place on the last Sunday of January. This date was chosen by French humanitarian, Raoul Follereau as a tribute to the life of Mahatma Gandhi, who did much work with persons affected by leprosy and died at the end of January 1948.

  

Insta Links:

MK Gandhi


Mains Link:

Q. Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times. (UPSC 2018)

Q. Highlight the difference in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (UPSC 2016)