What were the main reasons behind Mahatma Gandhi's decision to fast unto death?

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What were the main reasons behind Mahatma Gandhi's decision to fast unto death?

Mahatma Gandhi's decision to fast unto death was driven by several main reasons. Firstly, he used fasting as a powerful tool of nonviolent protest to draw attention to and address various social and political issues. By putting his own life at stake, Gandhi aimed to create a moral dilemma for his opponents and generate public sympathy and support for his cause.

One of the key reasons behind his decision to fast unto death was to protest against the communal violence and religious tensions that erupted during the partition of India in 1947. Gandhi strongly believed in religious harmony and unity among Hindus and Muslims, and he saw the violence and hatred as a betrayal of his vision for a united India. His fast was a plea for peace and an attempt to bring people together.

Another significant reason for Gandhi's decision to fast unto death was to advocate for the rights and welfare of the marginalized and oppressed sections of society. He undertook several fasts to protest against the mistreatment of untouchables (Dalits) and to demand their social upliftment. Gandhi's fasts were aimed at pressuring the government and society to address the injustices faced by these marginalized communities.

Furthermore, Gandhi's decision to fast unto death was also motivated by his opposition to British colonial rule in India. He used fasting as a means to mobilize the masses and galvanize the freedom struggle. By sacrificing his own life, Gandhi aimed to inspire and unite the Indian people in their fight for independence.

Overall, Mahatma Gandhi's decision to fast unto death was driven by his commitment to nonviolence, his desire for religious harmony, his advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities, and his opposition to British colonial rule. Through his fasts, Gandhi sought to bring about social and political change, and his actions continue to inspire people around the world to this day.