In which of the following movements did Mahatma Gandhi first use a hunger strike as a weapon?
Mahatma Gandhi first used the hunger strike as a political tool during the Ahmedabad Mill Workers’ Strike in 1918. The workers were demanding a 35% wage hike (Plague Bonus), which the mill owners refused. To strengthen the workers’ resolve and prevent them from turning violent, Gandhi went on a fast. Within three days, the owners agreed to the workers’ demands. ANSWER: (A) Ahmedabad Mill Workers’ Strike of 1918
Share
The Ahmedabad strike was a critical early experiment for Gandhi in mediating industrial conflict. When the workers began to waver in their commitment to non-violence, Gandhi declared his hunger strike. This fast exerted immense moral pressure on both the mill owners and the laborers. It resulted in a fair settlement and established Gandhi’s reputation as a leader who could balance the interests of the poor with those of the capitalist class. This event proved that the “soul force” of a fast could be a decisive factor in securing justice without resorting to conflict.