1. One of the primary reasons for the Rowlatt Act was to suppress the growing nationalist movements and unrest in India. The Rowlatt Act gave the colonial authorities all powers to arrest and detain individuals without trial, making it easier to suppress political opposition and prevent further nationalist agitation.
2. The Act gave the authorities the power to prohibit public gatherings and censor the press. This curbed the freedom of speech and assembly, as Indians were no longer free to express their political views, hold public meetings, or publish materials critical of British rule without risking arrest and prosecution. Random arrests and detention powers under the Rowlatt Act led to widespread misuse of power. Many political leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens were arrested on suspicion of being involved in anti-British activities. This resulted in a climate of fear, where people were afraid to voice their opinions against British oppression.
3. Mahatma Gandhi wanted non-violent civil disobedience against such unjust laws, which would start with a hartal on 6 April. Gandhiji in 1919 decided to launch a nationwide satyagraha against the proposed Rowlatt Act (1919).