- In 1918, due to drought conditions, crops in Kheda district of Gujarat failed, creating severe stress for the peasants.
- Authorities refused to follow Revenue Code, which stated: ‘Remission to be granted to farmers if the yield was less than 1/4th of the normal period’.
- Gandhi asked the peasants to not pay taxes. The Government insisted on seizing property if the revenue was withheld.
- The revolt remained organised, disciplined and unity was maintained even though the Government resorted to seizing of property of farmers.
- Funds were collected to donate to Gujarat Sabha (President-Gandhi), which was officially organising the protest.
- Government in the end agreed to suspend the tax for another year and reduce the rate of revenue for the next year and return all the seized property.
- Other important leaders of the satyagraha were: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Narahari Parikh, Mohanlal Pandya, Ravi Shankar Vyas, Indulal Yagnik, N.M. Joshi and Shankarlal Pareekh.
Significance of Ahmedabad Strike & Kheda Satyagraha
- Brought a new awakening among peasantry and working class.
- Importance of Independence was realised to overcome injustice and exploitation at the hands of colonial masters.
- Non-violent method of Satyagraha gained popularity among the masses.
- Mass appeal of Gandhi was strengthened among the diverse sections, especially the youth.
