End of Hunger Strike.
| Political | Social |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
5 min read
The event known as 'Broke the fast' occurred amid a period of intense communal violence and political upheaval in India. Mahatma Gandhi had embarked on a fast as a form of nonviolent protest and moral persuasion, aimed at appealing to the conscience of the masses to abandon violence and embrace peace. This fast was part of his broader strategy to restore communal harmony between Hindus and Muslims, which had been severely strained due to the partition and the consequent mass migrations and killings.
Gandhi's fast received widespread attention both nationally and internationally, highlighting the severity of the situation. It was a call for unity and mutual respect amongst all communities, particularly in regions like Bengal and Punjab, which were devastated by violence. The act of fasting, a familiar tactic in Gandhi's methods of peaceful resistance, placed considerable moral pressure on the leaders and the public.
Politically, the fast had significant implications. It urged leaders to take urgent measures for restoring order and promoting reconciliation. In response, efforts were made by leaders from different communities to come together in a symbolic gesture of peace and unity, visiting Gandhi and reassuring him of their commitment to ending communal strife.
On the social front, Gandhi's decision to break his fast had a heartening impact. It signaled that the immediate objective of his fast—receiving assurances and witnessing peace initiatives—had been met. While the communal tensions did not dissipate overnight, this step was pivotal in easing the widespread atmosphere of fear and hostility. Reports and records from that period indicate that violence did diminish, at least temporarily, in the regions where communal clashes had been most severe.
This moment, while rooted in a particular historical context, continues to symbolize the power of nonviolent activism and moral leadership. Gandhi's approach demonstrated that even in the face of profound adversity, steadfast commitment to nonviolence could foster significant political and social changes.
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Primary Reference: Gandhi Timeline - Life Chronology of Mahatma Gandhi

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