Page:Speeches And Writings MKGandhi.djvu/580

 490 NON-CO-OPERATION

uhen it is absolutely free from all violence. It becomes a duty when co-operation means degradation or humiliation or an injury to one's cherished religious sentiments. Eng- land cannot expect a meek submission by us to an unjust usurpation of rights which to Mussalmans means matters of life and death. We may, theiefore, begin at the top as also the bottom, Those who are holding offices of honour or emoluments ought to give them up. Those who belong to the menial services under the Government should do likewise. Non-co-operation does not apply to service under private individuals. I cannot approve of the thieat of. ostracism againa those who do not adopt the remedy of Non-co-opeiation. It is only a voluntary withdrawal which. is effective. For, voluntary withdrawal alone is a test of popular feeling and dissatisfaction. Advice to the soldier to refuse to serve Is premature. It is the last, not the first step, We should be entitled to take that step when the Viceioy, the Secretary of State and the Premier desert us. Moi cover, every step in withdrawing co-operation has to be taken with the greatest deliberation. We must proceed sloivly so as to ensure the retention of self-control under the fiercest heat.

Many look upon the Calcutta resolutions with the deep- est alaim. They scent in them a preparation for violence. I do not look upon them in that light, though 1 do not approve of the tone of some of them. I have already men- tioned those whose subject matter I dislike.

"Can Hindus accept all the resolutions?" is the ques- tion addressed by some. I can only speak for myself. I will cooperate whole-heartedly with the Muslim friends m the prosecution of their just demand so long as they act with sufficient restraint and so long as I feel sure that they do not wish to resort to or countenance violence. I should

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