Role of women in the freedom struggle, especially during the Gandhian phase.

The Gandhian Phase (1919–1947) transformed the Indian National Movement into a mass struggle by bringing women out of the domestic sphere and into the political battlefield. Mahatma Gandhi’s focus on Non-violence (Ahimsa) and Satyagraha made it possible for women to participate in the front lines of the struggle.

1. Participation in the Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM)

During the NCM (1920-22), women across India joined the call for Swadeshi. They were the backbone of the Charkha movement, spinning Khadi to promote economic self-reliance. Many women, like Basanti Devi and Sarala Devi Chaudhurani, courted arrest by picketing liquor shops and foreign cloth stores.

2. The Heroic Role in Civil Disobedience (CDM)

The Salt Satyagraha (1930) marked a watershed moment for women. When Gandhi was arrested, Sarojini Naidu (the Nightingale of India) led the Dharasana Salt Works protest, facing brutal police lathicharge with immense courage.

  • Women in rural India defied laws by making illegal salt.
  • In Odisha, leaders like Rama Devi and Malati Choudhury mobilized thousands of women for the Inchudi Salt Satyagraha.

3. Underground Activities during Quit India Movement

During the Quit India Movement (1942), when most male leaders were in jail, women took the lead. Aruna Asaf Ali hoisted the National Flag at Gowalia Tank Maidan, and Usha Mehta operated a Secret Congress Radio to spread nationalist messages underground.

4. Revolutionary and Armed Struggles

Beyond non-violence, women were active in militant groups. Preetilata Waddedar and Kalpana Datta participated in the Chittagong Armoury Raid. Furthermore, the Rani of Jhansi Regiment of the Indian National Army (INA), led by Captain Lakshmi Sahgal, proved that Indian women were ready for armed combat for freedom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the role of women was not merely supportive but decisive. Their participation gave the National Movement a moral force and ensured its social reach. This involvement during the freedom struggle laid the foundation for equal rights and universal suffrage in the Constitution of Independent India.