The Quit India Movement and the Non-Cooperation Movement were two significant campaigns led by Mahatma Gandhi during India’s struggle for independence. While both movements aimed at ending British rule, they differed in their objectives, outcomes, and strategies.

Objectives

Quit India Movement (1942)

• Primary Objective: Immediate and complete withdrawal of British forces from India.
• Slogan: “Do or Die.”
• Context: Launched during World War II when British resources were stretched thin, aiming for a decisive push towards independence.

Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)

• Primary Objective: Attaining self-governance (Swaraj) within the British Empire.
• Context: Reaction to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the repressive Rowlatt Act, seeking to dismantle the foundations of British rule through non-violent means.

Strategies

Quit India Movement

• Civil Disobedience: Mass protests, strikes, and refusal to cooperate with British authorities.
• Centralized Leadership: Led by the Indian National Congress, with an emphasis on widespread non-cooperation and disruption.
• Underground Activities: Covert operations and guerrilla tactics due to the immediate and harsh crackdown by the British.

Non-Cooperation Movement

• Non-Violence and Non-Cooperation: Boycotting British goods, institutions, courts, and services.
• Mass Mobilization: Encouraging Indians to withdraw from British-run schools, resign from government jobs, and refuse to pay taxes.
• Constructive Programs: Promoting Khadi (hand-spun cloth) and Indian industries to create economic self-reliance.

Outcomes

Quit India Movement

• Intense Repression: British authorities responded with severe repression, arresting thousands of leaders and activists.
• National Unity: The movement galvanized the Indian population, creating a sense of unity and urgency.
• Foundation for Independence: Although it did not achieve immediate independence, it significantly weakened British control and paved the way for eventual freedom in 1947.

Non-Cooperation Movement

• Widespread Participation: Successfully mobilized millions, making it one of the largest non-violent movements.
• Economic Impact: Hurt British economic interests by boycotting British goods and services.
• Chauri Chaura Incident: The movement was abruptly called off in 1922 following violent clashes in Chauri Chaura, highlighting the challenges of maintaining non-violence.

Conclusion

Despite different approaches and immediate outcomes, both movements significantly contributed to the weakening of British colonial rule and the eventual achievement of Indian independence.