Question

What conflict of duties did Gandhi face in the Champaran incident in Indigo ? (Indigo)

Hint:

Clearly distinguish between the "rule of law" and the "higher law of being/conscience." This incident marked the beginning of Civil Disobedience in India.

Answer 1

Concept:

• The moral dilemma between legal obedience and humanitarian service.
• The "voice of conscience" as a higher authority than the law.

Step 1: Identify the legal obligation Gandhi was pressured with
In Champaran, Gandhi was officially ordered to leave the district by British authorities.
As a trained lawyer, he was expected to be a law-abiding citizen and respect the official summons issued by the magistrate.

Step 2: Identify the humanitarian duty that conflicted with the law
On the other hand, Gandhi felt a strong humanitarian and national obligation to help the oppressed sharecroppers.
He decided to disobey the law not to show a lack of respect for authority, but to obey the "voice of conscience," prioritizing the service of his fellow countrymen over a "bad" law.