The Kheda Satyagraha of 1918 was a significant episode in India’s freedom struggle, marking one of the earliest successful non-violent protests led by Mahatma Gandhi. It took place in the Kheda district of Gujarat, where farmers rose in protest against the British colonial government. This movement not only highlighted the economic hardships faced by Indian peasants under British rule but also showcased the power of collective action and non-violent resistance.
But why did the Kheda farmers protest against the British? What were the circumstances that led to this agitation, and how did it shape the course of India’s independence movement? Let’s explore the reasons, demands, and impact of the Kheda Satyagraha.
1. Economic Hardship Due to Crop Failure
The primary reason for the Kheda farmers’ protest was the failure of crops in the region. In 1917-18, the Kheda district faced a severe drought, resulting in widespread crop failure.
- According to the British revenue laws, if the yield was less than one-fourth of the average production, farmers were entitled to remission of land revenue.
- However, despite the poor harvest, the British government refused to waive the land taxes.
- The farmers had no money to pay the taxes as they were already struggling for survival, facing starvation and debt.
The British insistence on collecting full revenue despite natural calamities pushed the farmers to the brink of desperation, forcing them to unite in protest.
2. British Insensitivity Towards Peasant Suffering
The British colonial administration demonstrated complete disregard for the plight of the farmers. While the peasants pleaded for relief, the government remained adamant, refusing to recognize the genuine hardship caused by the drought.
- Collectors and revenue officials threatened to confiscate property, including land and livestock, from those who could not pay.
- The British even seized movable property like household items, adding to the farmers’ suffering.
- Such repressive measures made it clear that the colonial government prioritized revenue collection over the welfare of the people.
This insensitivity and exploitation strengthened the farmers’ resolve to resist British oppression through organized protest.
3. Unfair Taxation Policies
The taxation policies of the British were exploitative and rigid. The land revenue was the main source of income for the colonial government, and it was collected irrespective of the farmers’ ability to pay.
- Even during natural disasters like droughts and floods, the taxes remained fixed.
- The farmers of Kheda demanded that the revenue assessment be postponed until the next harvest or waived entirely due to crop failure.
- The British refusal to reconsider the revenue demands exposed the oppressive nature of their economic policies.
This unjust taxation system fueled widespread resentment, making the Kheda Satyagraha a symbolic fight against economic exploitation.
4. Influence of the Champaran Satyagraha
The success of the Champaran Satyagraha in Bihar (1917), where Gandhi led indigo farmers against forced cultivation, served as an inspiration for the farmers of Kheda.
- Mahatma Gandhi, along with leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Indulal Yagnik, and Shankarlal Banker, came forward to support the Kheda farmers.
- Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) gave the farmers a new sense of hope.
- The farmers decided to refuse payment of taxes, believing that non-violent protest could force the British government to relent.
The Kheda Satyagraha thus became the second major experiment in Gandhian Satyagraha and laid the foundation for future mass movements in India.
5. Demand for Justice and Fair Treatment
The farmers of Kheda were not asking for complete abolition of taxes. Instead, their demands were reasonable:
- Suspension of revenue collection until the next harvest.
- Remission of taxes in case of crop failure, as per existing legal provisions.
- Return of confiscated properties and livestock.
- Fair treatment and consideration for the economic hardships they faced.
However, the British refusal to address these legitimate demands turned the issue of revenue collection into a larger struggle for justice and self-respect.
6. Role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Leadership
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who later earned the title “Iron Man of India”, played a pivotal role in the Kheda Satyagraha.
- Patel organized the farmers, explaining the principles of Satyagraha and the importance of unity.
- Under his leadership, the farmers pledged not to pay taxes, even if their lands were seized.
- The peaceful resistance, despite British repression, earned sympathy and support from across India.
This movement not only strengthened Patel’s leadership but also cemented his position as one of Gandhi’s closest allies in the freedom struggle.
7. Outcome and Impact of the Kheda Satyagraha
The Kheda Satyagraha eventually compelled the British government to negotiate.
- The British authorities agreed to suspend the tax collection for the year.
- All confiscated lands and properties were returned to the farmers.
- The movement proved that peaceful resistance, when organized and united, could force the British to concede.
The Kheda Satyagraha became a milestone in India’s freedom struggle, demonstrating the power of Satyagraha and paving the way for future mass movements, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement.
Conclusion
The Kheda farmers protested against the British due to unjust taxation policies, economic hardship caused by crop failure, and the insensitive attitude of the colonial government. Guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of Satyagraha and led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Kheda Satyagraha emerged as a powerful example of non-violent resistance.
The movement highlighted:
- The exploitation of Indian peasants under British rule.
- The importance of unity and peaceful protest in achieving political objectives.
- The growing confidence among Indians to challenge colonial authority.
The Kheda Satyagraha thus holds a significant place in India’s freedom struggle, serving as a reminder of how ordinary farmers, when united under visionary leadership, can become a powerful force for change.
Rahul Kumar is a passionate educator, writer, and subject matter expert in the field of education and professional development. As an author on CoursesXpert, Rahul Kumar’s articles cover a wide range of topics, from various courses, educational and career guidance.
