In the struggle for India’s independence, few movements were as powerful as…
2026
In the struggle for India’s independence, few movements were as powerful as the Salt Satyagraha. Led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, this nonviolent protest was a direct challenge to British rule and their oppressive salt laws. At the time, the British controlled the production and taxation of salt, making it illegal for Indians to collect or sell it. This simple necessity became a symbol of colonial exploitation, and Gandhi decided to resist.
On 12 March 1930, Gandhi, along with 78 followers, set out on a 240-mile march from his ashram in Sabarmati to the coastal village of Dandi. As they walked, thousands joined them, transforming the march into a national movement. On 6 April, Gandhi reached the seashore and picked up a handful of salt—defying British law. This act of civil disobedience sparked mass protests across India, with people making and selling salt illegally.
The British responded with brutal force, arresting over 60,000 people, including Gandhi himself. But the movement had already shaken the empire. The Salt Satyagraha proved that nonviolence could be a powerful weapon against oppression and inspired freedom struggles worldwide. It was a turning point in India’s journey to independence.
Q. What was the main objective of the Salt Satyagraha?
- A.
To fight for better wages for workers
- B.
To promote industrial development in India
- C.
To protest the British control over salt production and taxation
- D.
To demand the right to vote for Indians
Attempted by 21 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option
Option C: To protest the British control over salt production and taxation
Detailed Solution
The main objective of the Salt Satyagraha was to challenge British control over salt production and taxation. The text states it was a direct protest against oppressive salt laws that made collecting or selling salt illegal for Indians.