What is meant by the idea of satyagraha?
The idea of satyagraha emphasises the power of truth and the need to search for truth. It suggests that if the cause is true and the struggle is against injustice, then physical force is not necessary to fight the oppressor. A satyagrahi can win the battle through non-violence without seeking vengeance or being aggressive.
This could be done by appealing to the conscience of the oppressor. People – including the oppressors – had to be persuaded to see the truth, instead of being forced to accept truth through the use of violence. By this struggle, truth was bound to ultimately triumph.
Satyagraha is pure soul-force, not physical force. A satyagrahi does not inflict pain on the adversary or seek destruction. It is not the weapon of the weak but can be used only by the strong, as it calls for intense activity.
Explanation
The answer draws directly from the textbook's explanation of satyagraha in section 1.1. Key points covered include: (1) emphasis on power of truth, (2) rejection of physical force when the cause is just, (3) winning through non-violence and appealing to conscience, (4) persuasion over coercion, (5) satyagraha as soul-force rather than physical force, and (6) the distinction that it requires strength, not weakness. The word count is approximately 115 words, fitting the 80-120 word requirement for a 3-mark question.