Why was Non-cooperation Movement called off ?

The correct answer is Chauri-Chaura incident.

Key Points

• The Non-cooperation Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920 to protest against British rule, particularly the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the Rowlatt Act.
• The movement was called off in February 1922 following the Chauri-Chaura incident, where a violent clash resulted in the burning of a police station and the death of 22 policemen.
• Gandhi believed that the violence was against the principle of "Satyagraha" (non-violence), which formed the basis of the movement.
• The Chauri-Chaura incident marked a shift in Gandhi's approach, emphasizing the need for moral discipline and non-violent resistance in mass movements.
• The withdrawal led to a temporary setback in the Indian freedom struggle, but it helped Gandhi reinforce the importance of non-violence as a strategy for independence.

Additional Information

• Chauri-Chaura Incident:
  • Occurred on 4th February 1922 in the Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh.
  • A protest by Non-cooperation Movement supporters turned violent after police fired upon them.
  • The protesters retaliated by setting the police station on fire, killing 22 policemen.
• Non-cooperation Movement:
  • Launched in 1920 under Gandhi's leadership, aiming to boycott British institutions and goods.
  • Key methods included non-violent protests, boycotts, and refusal to pay taxes.
  • The movement aimed to achieve Swaraj (self-rule) for India.
• Satyagraha:
  • A form of non-violent resistance developed by Gandhi.
  • Based on the principles of truth and moral courage.
  • It was used extensively during India's freedom struggle to oppose injustice and oppression.
• Impact of the Withdrawal:
  • The suspension of the movement led to criticism from some leaders but reinforced Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence.
  • It paved the way for future movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement.