What is Rowlatt Satyagraha

The Rowlatt Satyagraha

• In 1919 Gandhiji gave a call for a Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act, passed by the British.
• The Act restricted the freedom of expression and strengthened police powers.
• Mahatma Gandhi, Mohammad Ali Jinnah and others strongly opposed this Act.
•  April 6th 1919, was observed as a day opposing the Act. It was a non-violent opposition.
•  Satyagraha Sabhas were set up all over India against the Rowlatt Act. It was the first all-India struggle against the British government.
• The British used brutal methods to suppress the Rowlatt Satyagraha. On 13th April the British opened fire on a peaceful group of people who had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh to protest against the Rowlatt Act. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre sent shock waves throughout the nation. All national leaders condemned the incidence.
• During the Rowlatt Satyagraha the participants tried to ensure that Hindus and Muslims were united in the fight against British rule.