How far Gandhi was trusted by the untouchables?. (UPSC CSE Mains 2015 - Sociology, Paper 2).
Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader in the Indian freedom struggle, is often associated with his efforts to eradicate untouchability and promote social justice. However, the level of trust that untouchables, who were marginalized by the caste system, had in Gandhi''s leadership varied over time.
Gandhi''s Early Engagement with Untouchables:
- Trust through Advocacy:In the early stages of his activism, Gandhi showed empathy and support for untouchables. He referred to them as "Harijans" or "Children of God" to uplift their self-esteem. His advocacy for their rights garnered initial trust.
- Poona Pact (1932):Gandhi''s role in the Poona Pact negotiations with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is noteworthy. He negotiated on behalf of the caste Hindus to secure separate electorates for Dalits. While Ambedkar agreed to give up separate electorates, Gandhi''s intervention disappointed some Dalit leaders.
Challenges to Trust:
- Fast Unto Death:In 1932, Gandhi initiated a fast unto death to protest against separate electorates for Dalits. His fast aimed to maintain Hindu unity. This move raised suspicions among some untouchable leaders, who saw it as an attempt to coerce them into accepting Gandhi''s viewpoint.
- Limited Political Representation:Untouchables grew skeptical of Gandhi''s leadership as they believed that the Poona Pact compromised their political representation within the system. They felt that Gandhi prioritized Hindu unity over their interests.
Rebuilding Trust:
- Focus on Social Reform:Gandhi''s efforts to eradicate untouchability and promote inter-caste harmony were more successful than his political initiatives. His insistence on manual scavenging being a degrading occupation and efforts to uplift sanitation workers demonstrated his commitment to social reform.
- Participation in Temple Entry Movements:Gandhi actively participated in temple entry movements, where untouchables were allowed access to temples that had previously barred them. His direct involvement in such social reforms helped rebuild trust among untouchable communities.
Gandhi''s relationship with untouchables was complex and evolved over time. While his early advocacy for their rights and negotiation skills were appreciated, some of his political decisions, like the Poona Pact, raised doubts among untouchable leaders. However, his unwavering commitment to social reform and efforts to abolish untouchability helped rebuild trust. Ultimately, Gandhi''s legacy in the fight against untouchability is marked by both successes and challenges, making his relationship with untouchables a subject of historical scrutiny and analysis.
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