The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was an agreement signed on 5th March 1931 between Mahatma Gandhi and the Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin. It marked a significant moment in India’s freedom struggle, temporarily pausing the Civil Disobedience Movement and opening the door for negotiations between the Congress and the British government.
Background
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The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–1931), including the Salt March, had mobilized millions of Indians and challenged British authority.
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Widespread arrests, violence, and British repression led to negotiations.
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The British government sought to end mass agitation while retaining control, while Gandhi aimed to secure concessions without compromising non-violence.
Main Provisions of the Pact
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The Congress agreed to suspend the Civil Disobedience Movement and participate in Round Table Conferences in London.
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Political prisoners arrested during the movement were to be released.
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Indians were allowed to make salt for domestic use, ending the immediate Salt Tax protest.
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The British promised to withdraw repressive measures and permit peaceful picketing of liquor and foreign cloth.
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Gandhi did not compromise on the ultimate goal of Purna Swaraj (complete independence).
Impact of the Pact
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Temporarily calmed tensions between the British government and Indian nationalists.
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Allowed the Congress to participate in constitutional negotiations at the Round Table Conferences (1930–1932).
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Strengthened Gandhi’s reputation as a negotiator and moral leader.
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Gave the British time to plan future reforms, eventually leading to the Government of India Act (1935).
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Criticism arose from radicals who felt that suspension of the movement was premature.
Key Takeaway
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931) demonstrated the effectiveness of non-violent mass struggle combined with negotiation. While it temporarily suspended agitation, it legitimized Indian demands and paved the way for constitutional discussions with the British, keeping the momentum of the freedom struggle alive.