‘Salt is something that is consumed by the rich and the poor alike across India.’
Which step by Viceroy Irwin enraged Gandhi to launch a nationwide protest movement using this essential item as a symbol? Elaborate with example.
Answer:
Points to Remember
- Salt production was controlled by the British government and imposed the salt tax.
- Mahatma Gandhi sent a letter to viceroy Irwin demanding to abolish the salt tax .
- Gandhiji believed it was the most repressive Act of the British Government
- Viceroy Irwin was unwilling to negotiate the demands due to this Mahatma Gandhi started the salt march.
Answer to be written in exam
Salt is consumed by both the poor and the rich, and is one of the most essential items of food. Mahatma Gandhi found in salt a powerful symbol that could unite a nation.
- In India, salt production was controlled by the British government . By imposing a ‘salt tax’ the Government hit both the rich and the poor, especially the poor.
- On 31 January 1930 , Mahatma Gandhi sent a letter to viceroy Irwin stating eleven demands . The most stirring of which was the demand to abolish the salt tax .
- Gandhiji believed it was the most repressive Act of the British Government and chose to defy it by breaking the “Salt Law” .
- Viceroy Irwin was unwilling to negotiate the demands. This action of Viceroy Irwin prompted Mahatma Gandhi to start his 240 miles long Salt March accompanied by 78 of his trusted volunteers .
