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 did the British do in response to the Salt Satyagraha??
- A.
They immediately lifted the salt tax
- B.
They arrested over 60,000 people, including Gandhi
- C.
They allowed Indians to freely produce salt
- D.
They ignored the protests and took no action
Attempted by 22 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option
Option B: They arrested over 60,000 people, including Gandhi
Detailed Solution
To answer this question, you look at the part of the passage describing the British reaction. The text states, "The British responded with brutal force, arresting over 60,000 people, including Gandhi himself". This confirms that the British utilized force and conducted mass arrests in response to the protests, rather than ignoring the movement or negotiating.