Gandhi’s commitment to democratic actions and non-violent protests strengthened when he initiated his fasting protest against India’s dictatorial government on March 3, 1939. During the late 1930s, while British India was directly governed by the British, princely states like Rajkot remained under the control of local monarchs, albeit under British suzerainty. In Rajkot, Thakore Saheb Dharmendrasinhji had broken promises of reforms and maintained total control over the government. Gandhi decided to step in after being alarmed by the repression of democratic voices.

Gandhi endorsed non-violent resistance, known as satyagraha, throughout his life as an effective means of fighting oppression. A protest erupted against Thakore Saheb Dharmendrasinhji because he failed to uphold his promise regarding administrative reforms after breaking the trust of his people. The fast ended four days after the dispute was sent to the Chief Justice of India. His fast was a calculated move to raise awareness of the suffering of the Rajkot residents and an act of self-sacrifice. It was intended to pressure the local ruler and British authorities to uphold their pledges to democratic administration.

Gandhi opposed India’s entry into World War II in 1939, claiming that a country deprived of freedom should not try to fight for democracy anywhere. The international outrage over British activities in India strengthened Gandhi’s cause, ultimately contributing to the end of British colonial control. Under political pressure, the British government allowed negotiations that resulted in reforms that led to concessions from the Rajkot ruler.

Despite ongoing obstacles, the British decided to alter the policy, and Gandhi was later freed. Gandhi spent two years in prison after being arrested along with Congress leaders. Gandhi’s fast proved that moral and ethical beliefs might overthrow repressive structures if strategically applied. India’s fight for independence was finally won in 1947 and was ultimately divided into India and Pakistan, gaining impetus from the protest.