Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Mahatma Gandhi’s engagement with the plight of the ‘untouchables’ was a defining feature of his social reform agenda. While he vehemently opposed untouchability, viewing it as a sin against Hinduism, his methods and terminology were often met with skepticism and even outright rejection by those he sought to uplift. The question of how far Gandhi was trusted by the untouchables is therefore complex, demanding an examination of his efforts, the responses they elicited, and the contrasting ideologies that shaped the Dalit movement. This answer will explore the evolving relationship, highlighting both the areas of convergence and divergence between Gandhi and the Dalit community.
Early Phase & Initial Engagement (1917-1930)
Gandhi’s initial involvement with the issue of untouchability began in 1917 with his work in Champaran, Bihar, where he encountered the social and economic hardships faced by the Dalit community. He started using the term ‘Harijan’ (children of God) to refer to them, intending to bestow dignity. However, this term was later criticized by Ambedkar and others as being patronizing and failing to address the systemic oppression they faced. He focused on removing untouchability from within Hinduism, believing that reforming the religion was key to their upliftment.
The Poona Pact (1932)
The pivotal moment in Gandhi’s relationship with the untouchables was the Poona Pact of 1932. This agreement was a response to the British government’s Communal Award, which proposed separate electorates for the ‘Depressed Classes’ (as Dalits were then known). Gandhi vehemently opposed separate electorates, fearing it would fragment Hindu society. He undertook a fast-unto-death to protest the Communal Award, arguing for reserved seats within the general electorate.
The Poona Pact, brokered by Ambedkar, conceded to Gandhi’s demand for joint electorates with reserved seats, but also secured concessions for Dalits, including provisions for education, representation in government services, and labor rights. While Gandhi presented it as a victory for Hindu unity, Ambedkar viewed it as a compromise forced upon him due to Gandhi’s immense political pressure and the threat to his life. This event significantly eroded trust among many Dalits.
Criticisms and Diverging Ideologies
Several factors contributed to the limited trust Gandhi enjoyed among untouchables:
- Varna System: Gandhi’s acceptance of the varna system, albeit with a rejection of untouchability, was a major point of contention. Ambedkar fundamentally rejected the varna system as inherently discriminatory and advocated for its complete abolition.
- Paternalistic Approach: Gandhi’s approach was often perceived as paternalistic, with him dictating the terms of their upliftment rather than empowering them to define their own struggles.
- Focus on Hindu Reform: Dalit leaders increasingly felt that Gandhi’s focus on reforming Hinduism did not adequately address the structural inequalities and historical injustices they faced. They sought political and social autonomy, not merely integration within a reformed Hindu society.
- Limited Economic Focus: While Gandhi advocated for economic self-sufficiency, his solutions often didn’t directly address the landlessness and economic exploitation faced by Dalits.
Post-Pact Developments & Continued Skepticism
Even after the Poona Pact, skepticism persisted. Dalit activists continued to organize independently, forming organizations like the All India Scheduled Castes Federation under Ambedkar’s leadership. During the Second World War, Ambedkar even explored the possibility of aligning with the British government to secure greater rights for Dalits, demonstrating a willingness to bypass Gandhi’s leadership. Gandhi’s emphasis on *swaraj* (self-rule) and non-violence, while powerful, didn’t always resonate with Dalits who felt their immediate needs were economic and social justice, requiring more direct action.
| Gandhi’s Approach | Ambedkar’s Approach |
|---|---|
| Reform Hinduism from within | Reject the varna system entirely |
| Joint electorates with reserved seats | Initially advocated for separate electorates |
| Emphasis on moral persuasion | Emphasis on political rights and legal safeguards |
| Integration within Hindu society | Social and political autonomy for Dalits |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Gandhi undeniably brought the issue of untouchability to the forefront of the national consciousness and made sincere efforts to uplift the ‘untouchables’, the extent of trust he garnered from the community was limited and contested. His paternalistic approach, acceptance of the varna system, and focus on Hindu reform clashed with the more radical demands for social and political autonomy articulated by Ambedkar and other Dalit leaders. The Poona Pact, while seemingly a compromise, ultimately deepened the divide. Gandhi’s legacy regarding the Dalits remains a complex and debated topic, reflecting the inherent tensions between integration and self-determination.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.