The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
Abolition of Indentured Emigration explained
Gandhi recounts the campaign to abolish the indentured labor system, from Pandit Malaviyaji's 1916 resolution to the Government's announcement before July 31, 1917.
What happens
Gandhi recounts the campaign to abolish the indentured labor system, from Pandit Malaviyaji's 1916 resolution to the Government's announcement before July 31, 1917. He describes organizing public meetings, a ladies' deputation to the Viceroy, and his own grueling third-class train journeys across India, emphasizing the role of potential satyagraha in hastening the abolition.
Themes in this chapter
Social Justice and Anti-Colonialism
Gandhi's campaign against the indentured labor system, which he viewed as semi-slavery, exemplifies his commitment to social justice and anti-colonial activism.
Nonviolence and Satyagraha
Gandhi considers satyagraha as a potential method for the abolition agitation and later notes that 'potential satyagraha hastened the end.'
Self-Discipline and Simplicity
Gandhi's patience and gentle demeanor during the difficult third-class train journey, refusing to retaliate against fellow passengers, reflect his practice of self-discipline.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Leads the all-India agitation against indentured emigration, meets with Viceroy, tours the country, and endures third-class travel hardships.
- Pandit Malaviyaji
Moves the resolution in the Imperial Legislative Council in March 1916 and later asks for leave to introduce a bill for immediate abolition in February 1917.
- Lady Cecilia Roberts
Mentioned as Lady Tata, part of the ladies' deputation to the Viceroy organized by Mrs. Jaiji Petit.
- Kaba Gandhi
Not directly mentioned in excerpts; omitted.
Key passages
“Indentured labourers were those who had emigrated from India to labour under an indenture for five years or less.”
Indentured laborers were Indian emigrants who worked under a contract lasting five years or less.
Defines the indentured labor system at the heart of the chapter.
“I had a satisfactory talk with Lord Chelmsford who, without being definite, promised to be helpful.”
Gandhi's meeting with the Viceroy was positive, though Lord Chelmsford gave only a vague assurance of support.
Highlights the diplomatic approach before launching the public agitation.
“My bitterest experience was from Lahore to Delhi.”
The most difficult part of Gandhi's journey was traveling third class from Lahore to Delhi.
Illustrates the physical hardships Gandhi endured during his tour.