Q4. Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B R Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar were two towering figures of Indian history, both deeply committed to uplifting the marginalised, particularly the Dalits (formerly "untouchables"). Despite their divergent approaches, both leaders aimed to eradicate social inequalities and improve the condition of the downtrodden. However, their methods and visions for achieving this goal varied significantly, leading to several ideological differences.

Body

Gandhi’s Approach:

• Moral and Spiritual Appeal: Gandhi sought to address caste-based discrimination through the moral regeneration of society. He believed in the upliftment of the "Harijans" (Children of God, his term for Dalits) through personal transformation and the promotion of non-violent resistance.
• Caste Reform Within Hinduism: Gandhi did not advocate the outright abolition of the caste system but argued for the removal of untouchability within the Hindu framework. He emphasised self-purification and social harmony.
• Rural Upliftment: Gandhi saw rural development and the empowerment of villages as key to addressing poverty and the plight of the downtrodden.

Ambedkar’s Approach:

• Legal and Institutional Change: Ambedkar focused on systemic, legal, and institutional reforms to end caste-based oppression. He believed in securing political and economic rights for Dalits through constitutional safeguards.
• Rejection of the Caste System: Unlike Gandhi, Ambedkar called for the complete dismantling of the caste system. He believed that the hierarchical nature of caste was inherently oppressive and incompatible with equality.
• Emphasis on Education and Representation: Ambedkar championed education and political representation as key tools for empowering the Dalits and ensuring their social and economic progress.

Common Goal:

• Amelioration of the Downtrodden: Despite their differences, both Gandhi and Ambedkar aimed at improving the condition of the marginalised sections of society, specifically the Dalits. Both fought against social injustice, though with distinct strategies: Gandhi through spiritual reform and Ambedkar through legal empowerment and social restructuring.

‍Conclusion

‍While Gandhi’s approach was rooted in moral persuasion and social harmony, Ambedkar’s focused on legal safeguards and structural change. Their divergence in strategy reflected their differing views on caste, yet both were united by the common goal of uplifting the downtrodden. Their contributions laid the groundwork for social justice and equality in modern India.

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