Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) - Vallabhbhai Patel

 

Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) - Vallabhbhai Patel

The Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928 stands as a shining chapter in India’s struggle for independence, showcasing the power of non-violent resistance and the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This movement, centered in the small taluka of Bardoli in Gujarat, was a remarkable example of unity, determination, and disciplined protest against unjust British policies. Under Patel’s guidance, the farmers of Bardoli fought not just for their rights but also ignited a spark of defiance across the nation. These notes explore the reasons for the inception of the Bardoli Satyagraha, its course, and its significant results, presented in simple, clear, and engaging language.

Reasons for the Inception of Bardoli Satyagraha

The Bardoli Satyagraha was born out of economic hardship and administrative injustice faced by the farmers of Bardoli taluka. Several key factors led to the uprising:

Unjust Revenue Hike: In 1927, the British authorities in Bombay Presidency announced a 30% increase in land revenue assessment for Bardoli taluka, claiming the region’s agricultural prosperity justified it. However, this decision was made without proper surveys or consideration of the farmers’ actual economic condition. The hike was seen as arbitrary and exploitative, as it placed a heavy burden on small and marginal farmers already struggling to make ends meet.

Economic Distress: The farmers of Bardoli were primarily small landholders, cultivating crops like cotton, tobacco, and grains. They faced challenges such as fluctuating market prices, dependence on monsoon rains, and debts to moneylenders. The sudden revenue increase threatened their livelihoods, pushing many toward poverty and landlessness. The British ignored these realities, showing a lack of empathy for the rural population.

Growing Nationalistic Spirit: By the late 1920s, India’s freedom movement was gaining momentum. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi had popularized the idea of non-violent resistance, or Satyagraha, as a tool to challenge British rule. The farmers of Bardoli, inspired by this spirit, saw their struggle as part of the larger fight for justice and self-rule. The involvement of Vallabhbhai Patel, a prominent Congress leader, further connected their local grievances to the national cause.

Administrative Arrogance: The British revenue officials dismissed the farmers’ protests against the hike, refusing to reconsider their decision. This high-handed attitude angered the local population, who felt their voices were being ignored. The lack of dialogue between the authorities and the farmers created a sense of injustice, fueling the demand for a collective response.

Leadership of Vallabhbhai Patel: The entry of Vallabhbhai Patel into the movement was a turning point. A lawyer and a dedicated follower of Gandhi, Patel had already earned respect for his organizational skills and commitment to public causes. The farmers of Bardoli approached him for guidance, and his decision to lead the movement gave them confidence and direction. Patel’s ability to unite diverse groups and his strategic vision laid the foundation for the Satyagraha.

Course of the Bardoli Satyagraha

The Bardoli Satyagraha unfolded as a disciplined, non-violent campaign that combined grassroots mobilization with strategic planning. Under Patel’s leadership, the movement progressed through several stages:

Initial Mobilization (February 1928): The Satyagraha began in February 1928 when Patel was invited by local leaders like Kunverji Mehta and Dayalji Desai to address the farmers’ grievances. Patel visited Bardoli, met with the villagers, and studied the revenue assessment issue. Convinced of the injustice, he agreed to lead the movement but emphasized the need for unity and non-violence. He urged the farmers to pledge their commitment to the Satyagraha, promising to stand by them.

Organization and Unity: Patel organized the farmers into a cohesive force. He divided Bardoli taluka into 13 camps, each led by trusted volunteers. These volunteers, many of whom were trained in Gandhian principles, spread awareness about the Satyagraha and prepared the villagers for a prolonged struggle. Women, too, played a vital role, participating in meetings and supporting the movement. Patel’s speeches, filled with simple yet powerful words, inspired the farmers to remain steadfast.

Refusal to Pay Revenue: The core strategy of the Satyagraha was to refuse payment of the increased land revenue. Patel declared that the farmers would not pay the hiked amount until the government agreed to an impartial inquiry. This act of defiance was risky, as non-payment could lead to confiscation of land, cattle, and property. Yet, the farmers, trusting Patel’s leadership, stood united in their resolve.

British Repression: The British authorities responded with harsh measures to break the movement. They confiscated farmland, seized livestock, and auctioned properties of non-paying farmers. Police arrested hundreds of protesters, and officials tried to intimidate the villagers through threats and fines. Despite this repression, the farmers remained non-violent, following Patel’s call to endure suffering with dignity.

Media and National Support: The Bardoli Satyagraha gained widespread attention through newspapers and the efforts of Congress leaders. Patel ensured that the movement’s message reached urban centers, where educated Indians and freedom fighters expressed solidarity. Mahatma Gandhi, though not directly involved, praised the Satyagraha and wrote articles in his newspaper, Young India, highlighting its significance. This national support put additional pressure on the British.

Role of Vallabhbhai Patel: Patel’s leadership was the backbone of the movement. Nicknamed the “Sardar” (leader) by the farmers, he combined strategic planning with emotional connect. He addressed village meetings, negotiated with officials, and maintained discipline among the protesters. His ability to remain calm under pressure and his unwavering commitment earned him the trust of the people.

Negotiations and Resolution (August 1928): By mid-1928, the British realized that the Satyagraha was not weakening. The movement’s success in maintaining unity and non-violence, coupled with growing public support, forced the authorities to reconsider their stance. In August 1928, the Bombay Presidency government agreed to Patel’s demand for an independent inquiry. A committee, led by a judicial officer and including Indian representatives, was appointed to review the revenue assessment.

Results of the Bardoli Satyagraha

The Bardoli Satyagraha was a resounding success, with far-reaching consequences for both the local farmers and India’s freedom struggle. Its outcomes can be categorized as immediate, regional, and national:

Immediate Victory for Farmers:

The inquiry committee found the 30% revenue hike unjustified and recommended a much lower increase of about 6%. This was a significant victory for the farmers, as it reduced their financial burden and restored their faith in collective action.

Confiscated lands and properties were returned to the farmers, and those arrested during the Satyagraha were released. The government’s climbdown was a rare admission of error, boosting the morale of the protesters.

Strengthening of Non-Violent Resistance:

The Bardoli Satyagraha demonstrated the effectiveness of non-violent resistance as a tool to challenge British authority. It reinforced Gandhi’s philosophy of Satyagraha, showing that disciplined, united action could yield results without resorting to violence.

The movement inspired other regions to adopt similar strategies, making non-violence a cornerstone of India’s freedom struggle.

Rise of Vallabhbhai Patel:

The success of Bardoli earned Vallabhbhai Patel the title of “Sardar” and established him as a national leader. His ability to mobilize rural communities and negotiate with the British showcased his leadership qualities.

Patel’s role in Bardoli strengthened his position within the Indian National Congress, paving the way for his future contributions to India’s independence and nation-building.

Boost to National Movement:

The Bardoli Satyagraha galvanized the Indian National Congress and the broader freedom movement. It showed that rural India, often seen as passive, could play a central role in the fight against colonial rule.

The movement’s success came at a time when the Congress was planning larger campaigns, such as the Dandi Salt March of 1930. Bardoli served as a precursor, proving that mass movements could challenge British authority.

Empowerment of Rural Communities:

The Satyagraha empowered the farmers of Bardoli, giving them a sense of agency and pride. It showed that ordinary people, when united, could stand up to powerful authorities.

Women’s participation in the movement marked an important step toward their involvement in public life, challenging traditional gender roles in rural India.

Moral Victory:

Beyond tangible outcomes, Bardoli was a moral triumph. The farmers’ courage, discipline, and adherence to non-violence won them admiration across India. The movement became a symbol of resistance against injustice, inspiring future generations.

Conclusion

The Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928 was a landmark event in India’s freedom struggle, blending local grievances with the larger fight for independence. Sparked by an unjust revenue hike, it grew into a powerful movement under the visionary leadership of Vallabhbhai Patel. Through unity, non-violence, and determination, the farmers of Bardoli forced the British to back down, securing both economic relief and a moral victory. The Satyagraha’s success strengthened the Congress, elevated Patel’s stature, and inspired millions to join the freedom movement. Its legacy lives on as a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring spirit of justice.

In the words of Sardar Patel, “Satyagraha is not a weapon of the weak but a tool of the brave.” The Bardoli Satyagraha embodied this truth, showing that even the humblest farmers could shake the foundations of an empire with courage and unity. This movement remains a beacon of hope, reminding us that when people stand together for what is right, no force can silence their voice.