Why Was the Gandhi-Irwin Pact Signed?

The Gandhi-Irwin Pact, also known as the Delhi Pact, was an agreement signed on March 5, 1931, between Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin, the then Viceroy of India. By recognizing the Indian National Congress and releasing political prisoners, the British government took a step towards addressing the demands of the Indian freedom fighters. While the pact may not have led to immediate independence, it set the stage for future negotiations and dialogue between the two parties. Let’s discuss in detail why was the Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed.

Reasons for Signing the Gandhi-Irwin Pact

Mahatma Gandhi launched the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930 to protest against the British government’s salt tax and monopoly. The movement gained widespread support from the Indian masses, leading to increased tensions between the Indian National Congress and the British authorities. As a response to the Civil Disobedience Movement, the British government invited Indian leaders to participate in a series of Round Table Conferences in London. However, the conferences failed to produce any concrete solutions to India’s political issues.

Also Read – Second Round Table Conference Was held In ____?

Key Points of the Pact

• In return for the suspension of the Civil Disobedience Movement, the British government agreed to release political prisoners and grant amnesty to those who had participated in the protests.
• Representation at the Second Round Table Conference of the INC. This provided Indian leaders with a platform to voice their demands for greater autonomy and self-governance.
• By recognizing the Indian National Congress as a legitimate political party, the British government acknowledged the growing influence and power of the Indian independence movement.

The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was seen as a symbol of goodwill and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue between the Indian freedom fighters and the British government. However, The Second Round Table Conference failed to resolve key issues such as the demand for complete independence.

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