Independence Pledge - January 26, 1930: Public Meetings and the Independence Pledge
On January 26, 1930, public meetings across India marked a significant event in the struggle for independence. The Independence Pledge, drafted by Gandhi, was read out in local languages, emphasizing the right to freedom and condemning British rule. It highlighted the economic exploitation, political suppression, cultural alienation, and spiritual weakening inflicted by British policies. The pledge urged Indians to withdraw voluntary association from the British government and prepare for civil disobedience, affirming the commitment to achieve complete independence (purna swaraj).
- Date and Occasion: On January 26, 1930, public meetings were organized across India in villages and towns, where the Independence Pledge was read out in local languages, and the national flag was hoisted.
- Pledge Drafted by Gandhi: The pledge, believed to be drafted by Gandhi, emphasized the following points:
- It is the inalienable right of Indians to have freedom.
- The British Government has not only deprived Indians of freedom but also ruined them economically, politically, culturally, and spiritually. Therefore, India must sever ties with Britain and attain complete independence (purna swaraj).
- Economic exploitation includes high revenue demands, the destruction of village industries without replacements, and manipulations of customs, currency, and exchange rates to India's disadvantage.
- No real political powers have been granted, with the rights of free association denied and administrative talent stifled.
- The educational system has culturally alienated Indians from their roots.
- Compulsory disarmament has spiritually weakened Indians, making them "unmanly."
- It is considered a crime against humanity and divine will to continue submitting to British rule.
- To prepare for complete independence, Indians were urged to withdraw voluntary association from the British government and prepare for civil disobedience through non-payment of taxes.
- The pledge concluded with a commitment to follow Congress instructions to establish purna swaraj.
