Gandhiji decided to withdraw the Non-Cooperation Movement primarily because it was turning violent and deviating from its core principle of non-violence. The major trigger was the Chauri Chaura incident in February 1922, where a violent clash led to the burning of a police station and the death of 22 policemen. Gandhi was deeply shocked and disturbed by this violence and felt that continuing the movement under such circumstances would be morally wrong and strategically counterproductive. He believed that the Indian masses were not yet fully prepared to maintain discipline and non-violence in a mass struggle. Other factors contributing to the withdrawal included the diminishing relevance of the Khilafat issue, the rise of militant approaches, government repression, and concerns over potential class conflict within the movement. Gandhi’s withdrawal was an effort to preserve the ethical foundation of the freedom struggle and prevent further violent escalation.
Key Reasons for Withdrawal
- Chauri Chaura Incident: Violent clash where protesters set fire to a police station, killing policemen.
- Principle of Non-Violence: Movement was violating Gandhi's core philosophy of peaceful resistance.
- Lack of Discipline: Indian masses were not fully prepared for sustained nonviolent struggle.
- Diminishing Khilafat Relevance: The abolition of Ottoman Caliphate reduced the movement's unifying cause.
- Rise in Militancy: Shift from non-violent to militant methods that threatened popular support.
- Government Repression: Harsh crackdowns on leaders and protestors.
- Fear of Class Conflict: Preventing the movement from turning into a class revolution against zamindars.
This withdrawal was a strategic and moral decision aimed at reassessing the movement's direction for future struggle against British rule.
