Correct Option
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are factually correct, and Reason (R) provides the accurate explanation for Assertion (A).
- Assertion (A): Mahatma Gandhi indeed suspended the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1922. The movement, launched in 1920, aimed at achieving Swaraj through non-violent means and involved a nationwide boycott of British institutions, goods, and services.
- Reason (R): The primary catalyst for the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement was the Chauri-Chaura incident. On February 5, 1922, in Chauri-Chaura (Gorakhpur district, Uttar Pradesh), a large group of protesters clashed with the police, leading to the burning of a police station and the death of 22 policemen.
- Explanation: Deeply disturbed by this act of violence, which he perceived as a significant deviation from the core principle of non-violence (ahimsa) fundamental to the movement's philosophy, Gandhi decided to halt the movement on February 12, 1922. He concluded that the masses were not yet adequately prepared or disciplined for a completely non-violent struggle and feared that further violence could undermine the movement's moral standing and objectives. Therefore, the violence at Chauri-Chaura directly led to the cessation of the Non-Cooperation Movement.
Incorrect Options
- Option 2: This option is incorrect because Reason (R) directly explains the cause for Assertion (A). The Chauri-Chaura incident was the immediate and decisive factor in Gandhi's decision to suspend the movement.
- Option 3: This option is incorrect as both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are historically accurate statements.
- Option 4: This option is incorrect as both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are historically accurate statements.