The Dandi March, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, was a historic and pivotal movement in India's struggle for independence. Led by Mahatma Gandhi, it began on March 12, 1930, and culminated on April 6, 1930, in Dandi, Gujarat, with the symbolic breaking of the salt law. The movement aimed at non-violently protesting the unjust Salt Tax imposed by the British government.
It is considered the launch of the Civil Disobedience Movement in India, giving a new direction to the awakening against British rule. Gandhiji and his 78 followers undertook a 241-mile (390 km) walk, with thousands of Indians gradually joining the march. This journey sent a powerful message against British rule, not only within India but also across the globe.
Background and Causes
The British government held a monopoly on salt production and sale in India. This monopoly forced Indians to pay exorbitant taxes for salt in their own country. For the poor, this was an added economic burden, as salt was a necessary commodity. Mahatma Gandhi termed it an unjust, oppressive, and inhumane tax.
He considered it a symbol of British exploitation and decided to launch a movement against it. He believed that if the Indian populace broke this law through civil disobedience, the foundations of the British government could be shaken.
Commencement and Route of the March
On March 12, 1930, Mahatma Gandhi, along with 78 followers, started a 241-mile (390 km) long foot march from Sabarmati Ashram (Ahmedabad, Gujarat) towards Dandi (a coastal village in Gujarat). This journey lasted 24 days, with thousands of Indians joining along the way. Gandhiji and his followers walked 10-15 miles daily, halting in villages to inspire people to non-violently oppose British laws and practice civil disobedience.
April 6, 1930 – The Historic Day of Law Breaking
On April 6, 1930, Gandhiji and his followers reached the Dandi seashore in Gujarat. There, they collected seawater, evaporated it, and made salt, thus breaking the British government's law. This was a symbolic act, but its consequences were far-reaching. Gandhiji stated: "If even a small child can make salt, the British government should realize that India is now fully prepared for independence."
Following this, millions of Indians began making salt themselves from seawater to defy the law. Women actively participated in many areas, strengthening the Satyagraha.
British Government's Response and Repression
Mahatma Gandhi was arrested on May 5, 1930.
Over 60,000 Satyagrahis were arrested.
In many places, the British police lathi-charged and fired upon Satyagrahis.
Sarojini Naidu and other leaders continued the movement.
Numerous protests erupted across the country in addition to the Salt Satyagraha, further distressing the British government.
Impact of the Dandi March
1. Renewed Energy for the Indian Independence Movement
The movement fostered unity against British rule across the nation. Thousands actively participated in the freedom struggle by making salt and boycotting British goods.
2. International Criticism of British Rule
The Satyagraha drew global attention to India's independence struggle. Many newspapers in America and Britain described Gandhiji's march as a historic rebellion against British rule.
3. Increased Women's Participation
Women actively participated in the movement. Sarojini Naidu, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, and other women led the Satyagraha and confronted the British.
4. Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931)
Concerned by the movement's impact, the British government negotiated with Gandhiji. In March 1931, an agreement was reached between Gandhiji and the then Viceroy, Lord Irwin, which resulted in:
Indians being permitted to make salt.
The release of prisoners arrested during the Satyagraha.
Gandhiji agreeing to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement.
Significance and Legacy
The Dandi March became a symbol of the power of non-violence and Satyagraha.
It redirected the Indian independence movement and drew international criticism of British rule.
It inspired Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and other social movements.
It was a significant milestone in India's freedom struggle, culminating in India's independence a few years later.
It proved that even a powerful empire could be challenged through non-violence.
It laid the foundation for India's independence in 1947.
The Dandi March was more than a journey; it was a demonstration of non-violent collective strength. It proved that a seemingly simple civil movement could shake a vast empire.
