 As a result, his actions are considered one of the most significant factors in the rise of the Indian independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi.O'Dwyer endorsed Reginald Dyer's action at Jallianwala Bagh, making it clear that he felt Dyer's orders to shoot at the crowds was correct.He subsequently administered martial law in Punjab, on 15 April, and backdated it to 30 March 1919.