Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The second half of the nineteenth century in India witnessed a growing awareness of social injustices and a burgeoning reform movement aimed at addressing them. This period coincided with the development of the Indian press, which, despite facing censorship and restrictions, played a pivotal role in disseminating information, fostering public opinion, and ultimately, arousing awareness on crucial social issues. Initially, the press was largely focused on political grievances, but it gradually turned its attention to the deeply entrenched social evils plaguing Indian society, becoming a powerful tool for social change. The press acted as a platform for reformers and a conduit for their ideas to reach a wider audience, challenging traditional norms and advocating for progressive reforms.
The Early Phase: Seeds of Social Awareness (1850s-1870s)
The initial phase saw the emergence of newspapers primarily focused on political issues related to British rule. However, even these publications began to touch upon social concerns. The Bengal Gazette (1816), though short-lived, set a precedent for critical commentary. Later, newspapers like The Hindu (founded in 1878) and Kesari (founded in 1881) started actively engaging with social issues.
- Focus on Sati and Widow Remarriage: Early reports on sati practices, often based on eyewitness accounts, were published, generating public outrage. The press actively supported the efforts of reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar in advocating for the legalization of widow remarriage.
- Vernacular Press: The vernacular press played a crucial role in reaching a wider audience, particularly in rural areas. Newspapers in Bengali, Marathi, and Hindi were instrumental in disseminating information about social reforms and mobilizing public opinion.
The Rise of Nationalist Press and Social Reform (1870s-1890s)
The growth of Indian nationalism provided a fertile ground for the press to address social issues more directly. Newspapers became increasingly vocal in their criticism of traditional practices and advocated for social reforms as an integral part of national progress.
- Samachar Patrika (Marathi): Founded by Vishnu Shastri Chiplunkar, this newspaper actively campaigned against social evils like child marriage and advocated for education for women.
- Kesari and Maratha (Marathi): Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s newspapers were instrumental in raising awareness about social issues and promoting a sense of national identity. They frequently published articles criticizing caste discrimination and advocating for social equality.
- The Indian Social Reformer: Founded by Ranade and others, this journal specifically focused on social reform issues.
- Debates on Age of Consent: The Age of Consent Act of 1891 sparked intense debate in the press. While many newspapers supported the Act, some conservative publications criticized it as an interference in religious and cultural practices.
Addressing Caste Discrimination and Other Social Evils (1890s-1900s)
The late 19th century saw the press increasingly focusing on the issue of caste discrimination and other social evils like untouchability. Newspapers played a vital role in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advocating for their rights.
- Jyotirao Phule’s Deenbandhu (Marathi): This newspaper was dedicated to the upliftment of the lower castes and actively campaigned against caste discrimination.
- Reports on Famines and Poverty: The press provided extensive coverage of famines and poverty, highlighting the social and economic inequalities that exacerbated these crises. This coverage often led to public pressure on the government to take action.
- Women’s Rights: Newspapers began to advocate for women’s education, property rights, and participation in public life. Articles and editorials challenged traditional gender roles and promoted the idea of women’s empowerment.
The Role of Journalists and Reformers
Several journalists and reformers played a crucial role in using the press to raise awareness about social issues.
| Name | Newspaper/Publication | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar | Various articles and pamphlets | Advocated for widow remarriage and women’s education. |
| Bal Gangadhar Tilak | Kesari and Maratha | Raised awareness about social issues and promoted national identity. |
| Jyotirao Phule | Deenbandhu | Championed the rights of the lower castes and campaigned against caste discrimination. |
| Gopal Ganesh Agarkar | Sudharak | Focused on social reform and rationalism. |
Conclusion
The press in the second half of the nineteenth century served as a powerful catalyst for social change in India. By disseminating information, fostering public debate, and amplifying the voices of reformers, it played a crucial role in arousing awareness about critical social issues like sati, widow remarriage, caste discrimination, and women’s rights. While facing challenges like censorship and limited reach, the press successfully challenged traditional norms and paved the way for progressive reforms. Its legacy continues to inspire social activism and advocacy for a more just and equitable society.
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.