Gandhi started the no-tax campaign of civil disobedience at Bardoli in March 1922 but, he almost at once suspended it as he thought that the people were not yet fit for Satyagraha. The authorities however, arrested him on March 10, 1922 for having written certain articles in the "Young India" creating disaffection among the people against the British Government. He was brought on the charge of sedition. It started on March 18. The Judge was Mr. Broomsfield – a senior member of the Indian Civil Service. Though a historic trial, it lasted only a few days. It commenced with the Judge nodding in respectful salutation to the man in the dock.
In his statement, Gandhi spoke fearlessly. The following is an extract from it.
"I knew I was playing with fire. I ran the risk and if I were set free, I would still do the same. I would be failing in my duty if I did not do so. I had either to submit to a system which I considered had done irreparable harm to my country, or to incur the risk of the mad fury of my people bursting forth when they understood the truth from my lips. I know that my people have sometimes gone mad. I am deeply sorry for it, and, I am, therefore, here to submit not to a light penalty, but, to the highest penalty. I do not ask for mercy. I do not plead any extenuating act. The only course open to you, Mr. Judge, is either to resign your post or to inflict upon me the severest penalty."
He was convicted of the charge and sentenced to six years imprisonment.