Explore the Surat Salt Agitations of the 1840s, triggered by the British government's hike in salt duty and the introduction of new weights and measures. Learn about the local resistance, attacks on Europeans, and the eventual withdrawal of the contentious policies.

Surat Salt Agitations (1840s): Protests Against Salt Tax and Standard Measures

• In 1844, the local population of Surat strongly opposed a government move to raise the salt duty from 50 paise to one rupee.
• The resulting popular agitation led to attacks on Europeans and forced the government to withdraw the additional salt levy.
• In 1848, the government attempted to introduce Bengal Standard Weights and Measures, which faced severe resistance and boycott from the people.
• The resistance led the government to withdraw the new measure.