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Satyagraha Campaigns
Rules:
1) Self-reliance: do not depend on those over whom you have no control for anything crucial to your campaign.
2) Keep the initiative: even while awaiting a reaction from the opponent, continue to take constructive action.
3) Provide continual informational propaganda.
4) Reduce demands to a minimum, but never surrender essentials in negotiations.
5) Avoid a static condition in the movement.
6) Examine openly and honestly whatever weaknesses appear in the movement at any time.
7) Never abandon the search for an avenue of cooperation with the opponent on honorable terms. Make the problem, not the opponent, the butt of the attack.
8) Insist on full agreement on the fundamentals before abandoning the movement.
Code of discipline:
1) Refuse to return the assaults of the opponent.
2) Refrain also from insults.
3) Protect the opponents from any physical attack --- court their trust.
4) Do not resist arrest or attachment of property. Do not defend territory, defend ideas and ideals.
5) If taken prisoner, behave in a manner befitting a satyagrahi.
6) Obey the orders of the chosen leaders. Resign if you cannot, in conscience, do so. If dissatisfaction is widespread, a new leader should be chosen.
7) Expect no guarantees of safety or victory. The method is not infallible. Nevertheless, maintain courage and confidence. To lose morale is to lose the struggle.
These guidelines were developed by Gandhi over many years of political struggle. Though they are not all directly relevant to our own work, their spirit and insight should serve as important models for our activities.
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