UPSC Mains 2015 GS Paper 1 Q4: model answer

Mahatma Gandhi and Dr B.R. Ambedkar differed sharply on how to end caste oppression, but both sought dignity for the downtrodden.

Gandhi's approach

• Untouchability as a moral sin of Hindu society; reform through change of heart among caste Hindus.
• Called the untouchables 'Harijans'; founded the Harijan Sevak Sangh (1932) and the weekly Harijan; temple-entry campaigns.
• Initially defended varna as a division of duties, though he opposed untouchability.

Ambedkar's approach

• Caste as a system of social and economic exploitation; called for its 'annihilation' (Annihilation of Caste, 1936).
• Political rights and legal safeguards: separate electorates at the Round Table Conferences, education, organisation (Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha, 1924), the Mahad Satyagraha (1927).
• Later embraced Buddhism (1956).

Points of conflict

• The Communal Award (1932) gave separate electorates; Gandhi fasted; the Poona Pact (1932) gave reserved seats in joint electorates instead.

The common goal

• Both sought an end to untouchability and the uplift of the oppressed classes; Ambedkar's constitutional work (Article 17) completed what both wanted.
• Gandhi supported Ambedkar's inclusion in the first cabinet and the Constituent Assembly, a sign of mutual respect despite their sharp and public differences.

Conclusion

Gandhi worked on the conscience of the oppressor; Ambedkar on the rights of the oppressed. Their paths complemented each other in building a more just society.