i spoke of the people’s misery under British rule and of the absurd laws. He said that perhaps in reality he was innocent, but under these laws, he was guilty. The judge praised Gandhi “as a man of high ideals and of a noble and even saintly life”. But he was still sentenced. Gandhi was released two years later. He fasted for three weeks in protest against the increasing conflict between the Muslims and the Hindus. Then he turned his attention to social reforms, touring the country by train, cart, and on foot, speaking to many crowds of people. Many of his followers considered him a saint and was showered with gifts, but turned them over to funds. He taught the importance of equality for women and for the people of different classes and religions. He encouraged spinning and discouraged the use of alcohol or using drugs. In 1928, a Royal Commission arrived from Britain to analyze the situation in India. This included no Indian members and it was met by protest meetings, which were broken up by the British authorities. The new proposals still left the country under British rule. This angered the Indian National Congress even more and they wanted nothing but independence.The Salt March of 1930 began a new round of nonviolent protest. Gandhi walked 322 km to the coast of Dandi. Thousands joined the march, watched by the world’s press. On the beach after morning prayers, he picked up a pinch of salt. Salt was taxed; legally, only the Government could extract it from seawater. Gandhi’s signal encouraged people to break the law and manufacture salt. In cities and villages, illegal salt was distributed. About 100,000 people, including Gandhi and other Congress leaders were imprisoned. These people faced police brutality. Some were beaten badly and some even dies. Eventually the campaign succeeded and salt manufacturing was allowed. Later Gandhi took part in the Round Table conference in Brita...
