Kheda Satyagraha in 1918 marked the inaugural non-cooperation movement under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi.

This satyagraha focused on the agrarian Patidar community in Kheda, staunchly opposing a 23 percent tax hike imposed on them amidst a dire combination of crop failure, plague, and cholera. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and key members of Gandhi's team, including Indulal Yagnik, Shankarlal Banker, and Mahadev Desai, played crucial roles. They traversed the rural landscape, actively spreading awareness about farmers' rights during this significant chapter in India's struggle for independence. This article will delve into the distinctive features of Kheda Satyagraha, essential for UPSC exam preparation.

Kheda Satyagraha – Background

Farmers in Gujarat's Kheda district faced distress owing to a significant crop failure. Despite the adversity, the government adamantly declined to remit land revenue, insisting on its full collection.

Mahatma Gandhi, in response, advised the peasants to withhold payment of revenue until their demand for remission was acknowledged as part of an experiment. Subsequently, it was revealed that the government had instructed to recover revenue only from those peasants capable of paying, leading to the conclusion of the struggle.

Notably, during the Kheda movement, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel emerged as a devoted follower of Gandhiji.

Features

In 1918, a drought in Gujarat's Kheda district resulted in crop failure, prompting concerns among farmers. According to the Revenue Code, farmers were eligible for remission if their yield fell below one-fourth of the normal produce.

The Gujarat Sabha, representing peasants, petitioned the provincial authorities, urging the suspension of revenue assessment for 1919. However, the government, unwavering, threatened to seize farmers' property if taxes were not paid.

Gandhi, primarily the spiritual leader of the struggle, advised farmers against tax payment. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and committed Gandhians like Narahari Parikh, Mohanlal Pandya, and Ravi Shankar Vyas organized villages, providing crucial political leadership and fostering unity.

Despite the government seizing property and livelihoods, most of Kheda's farmers stood by Sardar Patel, demonstrating remarkable discipline. Sympathetic Gujaratis from other regions supported the revolt by sheltering protesting peasants' relatives and property.

Attempts by some Indians to purchase confiscated lands were met with social ostracization. Eventually, the government, under pressure, reached an agreement. It agreed to suspend taxes for the current and following year, reduce rate increases, and return all confiscated property.

Conclusion

The movement's most notable achievements included its commitment to nonviolence, the education of peasants about their rights, and the unwavering community demand for a tax holiday that year. The Kheda struggle ignited a fresh wave of awareness among the peasantry, leading to the realization that true freedom from injustice and exploitation would only be achieved with the attainment of complete independence for their country.

FAQs

Q1: What were the causes of Kheda Satyagraha?

A1: Kheda Satyagraha was triggered by multiple factors, primarily the distress faced by farmers in Gujarat's Kheda district due to a significant crop failure in 1918. The government's insistence on collecting full land revenue despite the adverse conditions became a pivotal cause, compelling Mahatma Gandhi and the peasants to embark on the non-cooperation movement.

Q2: What was the outcome of Kheda Satyagraha?

A2: The Kheda Satyagraha achieved notable success. The government, under pressure, eventually agreed to suspend the tax for the current and following years. Additionally, there were reductions in rate increases, and all confiscated property was promised to be returned. The movement left a lasting impact on the peasantry, fostering awareness about their rights and sparking a renewed sense of unity and purpose.

Q3: What was the main demand of Kheda Satyagraha?

A3: The primary demand of Kheda Satyagraha was a remission of land revenue for the year, as the farmers were grappling with a disastrous crop failure. Mahatma Gandhi, along with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and other leaders, advocated for the suspension of revenue collection and highlighted the plight of the peasants, emphasizing their right to fair treatment during challenging times.