Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Untouchability, a deeply entrenched form of social stratification in India, has been a focal point of social reform movements for centuries. While the desire to eradicate this practice was shared by many, the strategies and perspectives differed significantly. Mahatma Gandhi, advocating for *Sarvodaya* and a harmonious Hindu society, initially approached untouchability as a moral failing within Hinduism. However, B.R. Ambedkar, a Dalit intellectual and activist, viewed it as a systemic oppression requiring radical structural changes and political empowerment of the oppressed. This shift from a reformist, moral approach to a more revolutionary, rights-based approach marks a crucial evolution in the struggle against untouchability.
Gandhian Approach to Untouchability
Gandhi’s initial approach, prevalent until the 1930s, focused on the moral purification of Hindu society. He termed untouchables ‘Harijans’ (children of God) and believed that changing the attitudes of caste Hindus was key to eradicating untouchability. His methods included:
- Moral persuasion: Appealing to the conscience of caste Hindus to abandon discriminatory practices.
- Self-reform movements: Encouraging upper castes to admit Harijans into temples and public spaces.
- Focus on sanitation: Gandhi saw manual scavenging as particularly degrading and initiated efforts to improve sanitation, believing it would uplift the community.
- The Harijan Sevak Sangh (1934): Established to work for the upliftment of Harijans through social service.
However, Gandhi’s approach was criticized for being paternalistic and for not challenging the fundamental tenets of the caste system. He believed in *Varna Vyavastha* (the four-fold division of society) and sought to reform it rather than abolish it.
Ambedkarite Perspective and Struggle
B.R. Ambedkar, having experienced untouchability firsthand, adopted a more radical and assertive approach. He viewed untouchability not as a religious failing but as a socio-political problem rooted in the Hindu social order. His key strategies included:
- Political mobilization: Advocating for separate electorates for Dalits to ensure their political representation (Poona Pact, 1932).
- Emphasis on education: Believing education was crucial for empowerment and social mobility. He founded the People’s Education Society in 1938.
- Demand for constitutional safeguards: Pushing for legal and constitutional provisions to protect the rights of Dalits.
- Rejection of Hinduism: Ultimately, Ambedkar rejected Hinduism and converted to Buddhism in 1956 with his followers, viewing it as inherently discriminatory.
- Annihilation of Caste (1936): His seminal work, advocating for the complete dismantling of the caste system.
Ambedkar’s approach was centered on self-respect, self-determination, and the assertion of Dalit rights. He believed that true liberation could only be achieved through political power and structural changes.
Shifting Forms and Perspectives
The shift from Gandhian to Ambedkarite positions reflects a growing awareness among Dalits of the limitations of reformist approaches. While Gandhi’s efforts raised awareness and generated some sympathy, they failed to address the systemic nature of caste oppression. Ambedkar’s approach, on the other hand, focused on:
| Feature | Gandhian Approach | Ambedkarite Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Moral reform of Hindu society | Structural change and political rights |
| Nature of Problem | Moral failing within Hinduism | Socio-political oppression |
| Strategy | Persuasion, self-reform | Political mobilization, legal safeguards |
| View of Caste | Reformable *Varna Vyavastha* | System to be annihilated |
The post-independence period saw the adoption of affirmative action policies (reservations) based on Ambedkar’s principles, demonstrating the influence of his ideas on the Indian Constitution and social policy. However, the struggle against untouchability continues, with issues like caste-based discrimination, violence, and economic inequality remaining prevalent.
Conclusion
The evolution of the struggle against untouchability from Gandhian to Ambedkarite perspectives represents a crucial shift from a reformist to a revolutionary approach. While Gandhi’s efforts were significant in raising awareness, Ambedkar’s focus on structural changes and political empowerment proved more effective in securing legal and constitutional safeguards for Dalits. Despite these advancements, the complete eradication of caste-based discrimination remains a challenge, requiring continued efforts to address the deep-rooted social and economic inequalities that perpetuate this injustice.
Answer Length
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