Rowlatt Satyagraha, Mahatma Gandhi and Muslims

Abstract

The Rowlatt Act was an unjust law. It was enacted to suppress the anti-British sentiments that had spread after the war and to control revolutionary activities. Following World War I, India's Muslim community was particularly displeased with the British. The insult to the Turkish Caliph and the seizure of Turkish territories from the British caused intense despair among Muslims. This Act was enacted to control this atmosphere of despair and suppress the growing anti-British sentiments among Muslims. Therefore, it was opposed by Muslims. When Gandhiji called for a Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act, Muslims joined in large numbers. Muslims from almost every province of the country participated. During this period, Hindu-Muslim unity was seen, which reached its peak. We see that Gandhiji and other prominent Hindu leaders were invited to speak at the mosque and were heard by a Muslim audience. Such an event is rare in history. Inspired by Gandhiji's ideas, Muslims participated wholeheartedly in this Satyagraha. During this period, many Muslims were also targeted by police bullets and martyred in the name of the nation.