Consider the following statements about the Salt March : 1. The Sal

Consider the following statements about the Salt March :

  • 1. The Salt March was deliberately ignored by the European media.
  • 2. The Salt March was widely covered by the American and European press.
  • 3. The Salt March was the first nationalist activity in which women participated in large numbers.
  • 4. The Salt March impressed upon the British the urgent need to devolve more power to Indians.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

1, 2 and 4
2, 3 and 4
3 and 4 only
2 and 3 only
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2017
The correct answer is B) 2, 3 and 4. Statements 2, 3, and 4 correctly describe aspects of the Salt March and its impact, while statement 1 is incorrect.
– Statement 1 is incorrect because the Salt March received significant attention from international media, including American and European press, bringing the Indian independence struggle to global prominence.
– Statement 2 is correct. The extensive coverage by the foreign press was a key factor in highlighting the non-violent nature of the movement and the oppressive British rule.
– Statement 3 is generally considered correct. While women participated in earlier nationalist movements, the Salt March and the subsequent Civil Disobedience movement saw women participate in mass numbers for the first time, taking active roles like picketing, leading processions, and manufacturing salt.
– Statement 4 is correct. The widespread participation in the Salt March and the Civil Disobedience movement demonstrated the strong nationalist sentiment across India and pressured the British government to engage in negotiations and consider constitutional reforms aimed at devolving more power, leading to the Round Table Conferences and later developments.
The Salt March was not just about breaking the salt law; it was a symbolic act that triggered widespread civil disobedience across India. The participation of women under the leadership of figures like Sarojini Naidu was particularly noteworthy. The international media coverage helped build global sympathy for the Indian cause and put diplomatic pressure on the British government.