Image: Mahatma Gandhi in 1948, historical photograph.
In January 1948, Mahatma Gandhi undertook his final major fast in Delhi amid continuing communal tensions following Partition. The fast began on 13 January and became a significant episode in his final weeks.
Why Gandhi fasted
Gandhi was deeply concerned about communal violence, displacement and insecurity affecting Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs in the aftermath of Partition.
The Delhi appeal
His demands included restoring communal peace, ensuring the safety of Muslims in Delhi and ending actions that threatened peaceful coexistence.
The fast ends
Gandhi ended the fast on 18 January after political and community leaders gave assurances regarding peace and the protection of minorities.
His final days
Gandhi continued meeting people and attending prayer gatherings after the fast. Twelve days later, on 30 January 1948, he was assassinated during an evening prayer gathering.
Historical significance
The January fast is an important part of understanding Gandhi’s final efforts to address communal violence through nonviolent moral appeal.
Read NewsNationOnline’s Partition peace missions feature and Gandhi Smriti feature.
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