Individual Satyagraha (1940-1942) – History UPSC Notes

Individual Satyagraha (1940-1942) Background & Purpose Launched by Mahatma Gandhi as a peaceful protest against British involvement in World War II without Indian consent. It was a symbolic protest rather than a mass movement. Key Objectives 1️⃣ Show that nationalist patience was not a sign of weakness. 2️⃣ Demonstrate Indian disinterest in the war and highlight that British rule was as autocratic as Nazi rule . 3️⃣ Give the British a chance to peacefully accept Congress’ demands. Key Leaders & Events Acharya Vinoba Bhave → First Satyagrahi (17 October 1940, Paunar Ashram, Maharashtra). Jawaharlal Nehru → Second Satyagrahi. Brahma Dutt → Third Satyagrahi. Many prominent Congress leaders were arrested between November 1940 – February 1941 . Method of Protest The selected Satyagrahi would: Inform the District Magistrate about the protest date, time, and location. Publicly declare: ❝It is wrong to help the British war effort with men or money. The only worthy effort is to resist all war efforts …