Gandhi is known both as the leader of anti-colonial nationalism and also as champion of oppressed and marginalized people like Dalits in India. However, Gandhi’s engagement with Dalits, or former untouchables, is very complicated and he was even challenged by Dalit leaders like like B.R. Ambedkar.
Must read: Ambedkar vs Gandhi : Caste System and Untouchability
Gandhi’s Works Regarding Upliftment of Dalits
There are bountiful evidences to suggest that Gandhi dedicated his entire life to uplifting the marginalized status of Dalits. Here are some of his multifaceted efforts:
Harijan Movement:
Gandhi launched the Harijan movement in 1932 to fight against the social injustices faced by Dalits. He undertook nationwide tours, visiting “Harijan” communities, and advocating for their rights.
Promotion of the Term “Harijan”:
Gandhi coined the term “Harijan” to refer to Dalits, meaning “children of God.” He believed that this term would help in removing the stigma associated with untouchability.
Temple Entry:
Gandhi campaigned for the right of Dalits to enter Hindu temples, which was a significant step towards their social integration.
Access to Public Facilities:
He fought for the rights of Dalits to access public wells, schools, and other facilities from which they were traditionally barred.
Must read: Gandhi and Ambedkar : common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden
Impacts of Gandhi’s Works on Dalit Empowerment
Impacts of Gandhi’s works on Dalit empowerment have been wonderous:
Awareness and Mobilization:
Gandhi’s campaigns brought national attention to the plight of Dalits and mobilized public opinion against the practice of untouchability. His efforts helped in raising awareness about the social injustices faced by Dalits and garnered support for their cause.
Social Integration:
Gandhi’s advocacy for temple entry and access to public facilities for Dalits played a significant role in their social integration. His efforts helped in breaking down some of the barriers that separated Dalits from the rest of society.
Political Representation:
Gandhi’s support for the Poona Pact in 1932, which provided for reserved seats for Dalits in the Provincial Legislatures, was a significant step towards ensuring political representation for Dalits.
Criticisms of Gandhi’s Approach Regarding Dalits
Despite his efforts, Gandhi’s approach has been criticised by some Dalit leaders and scholars. They argue that his emphasis on nonviolence and moral persuasion was insufficient to dismantle the deeply entrenched caste system.
Critics also point out that Gandhi’s acceptance of the varna system and his use of the term “Harijan” were paternalistic and did not address the root causes of caste discrimination.
Critics also point out that Gandhi’s methods often conflicted with those of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a contemporary Dalit leader and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. While Gandhi was committed to the idea of varnashrama dharma (the caste system), suggesting modifications to make it more equitable, Ambedkar advocated for its complete abolition, viewing it as inherently discriminatory. This fundamental difference in perspectives led to disagreements on how best to achieve Dalit upliftment, with Ambedkar accusing Gandhi of perpetuating caste distinctions even in his advocacy for Dalit rights.
Moreover, some scholars assert that Gandhi’s fasting and appeals to moral conscience in the upper castes did little to change the material conditions and social realities faced by Dalits. They argue that his actions, while raising awareness, did not lead to significant structural changes or improve the socioeconomic status of Dalits in a substantial way. Instead, these critics suggest that Ambedkar’s legal and political
approach had a more direct impact on the lives of Dalits by securing specific legal protections and rights for them.
Furthermore, Gandhi’s opposition to the “separate electorates” for Dalits, a policy proposed by the British that would allow them to elect their own representatives, is another focal point of criticism. Gandhi feared that separate electorates would divide Hindu society, which led to his fast unto death in 1932. This event resulted in the Poona Pact, which instead provided reserved seats for Dalits but within the general electorate. Critics argue that this move weakened Dalit political autonomy and their ability to advocate for their distinct interests.
However, while his approach has been subject to criticism, Gandhi’s legacy continues to inspire movements for social justice and equality, emphasizing the importance of dignity and respect for all individuals.
