Introduction
It is often debated whether Gandhi was casteist, a viewpoint primarily propagated through Ambedkar's critiques. This essay aims to present a multifaceted analysis of Gandhi's views on the caste system in India, highlighting his efforts to eradicate untouchability and provide a balanced view of his contributions.
Gandhi, a Caste Hindu himself, grappled with the idea of untouchability throughout his life, made significant efforts to reform Hinduism, and fought against the inequalities embedded in the caste system.
Gandhi’s Early Opposition to Untouchability
From a young age, Gandhi was forcefully introduced to the harsh realities of untouchability. The story of Uka, an untouchable who cleaned the toilets in the Gandhi household, is a stark reminder that Gandhi's questioning of untouchability began at a tender age of twelve. Gandhi's mother's actions further solidified his understanding that untouchability was a sin.
Through the study of the iconic Ramayana, Gandhi delved deeper into the scriptures to challenge the notion that untouchability was an integral part of Hinduism. He asked, 'How can a text as sacred as the Ramayana in which an untouchable figures prominently countenance the idea of any human being as untouchables on the ground that they were polluted souls?' This journey helped him realize that untouchability was a flaw within Hinduism that needed to be addressed.
Gandhi’s Activism in South Africa
While in South Africa from 1893 to 1914, Gandhi's experiences with untouchable indentured laborers deepened his understanding of the plight of the marginalized. These individuals were not only viewed as untouchables but also faced harsh discrimination. This period played a critical role in Gandhi’s development and reviving of his resolve to challenge Hindu orthodoxy. Gandhi rejected the notion that the work of a sweeper was polluting and refused to make distinctions between Brahmins and untouchables.
The South African years provided Gandhi the freedom to relate to people across religious, ethnic, and caste lines. However, he still faced domestic conflicts within his family over the issue of untouchability. For instance, Kasturba and Maganlal Gandhi, his spouse and chief lieutenant respectively, initially opposed the inclusion of untouchables in the Satyagraha Ashram.
The Formation of the Satyagraha Ashram
The Satyagraha Ashram, founded by Gandhi in 1915, became the crucible for his vision of a just society. It was here that Gandhi and his followers embarked on a journey of self-purification and actively worked towards the eradication of untouchability. The ashram's members, including Kasturba and Maganlal, initially held reservations about the inclusion of untouchables but eventually supported Gandhi's mission.
Gandhi saw the eradication of untouchability as a central tenet of his philosophy and a key activity of the Satyagraha Ashram. The ashram served as a laboratory for the transformation of society and a platform for the training of individuals to carry forward Gandhi's political and social agenda. Gandhi believed that all of humanity was one large family without distinction of religion, caste, or nationality, making the eradication of untouchability a fundamental goal.
Gandhi’s Struggles for Untouchability
Upon returning to India, Gandhi intensified his fight against untouchability. His philosophy of Satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) was central to his approach. Gandhi recognized the complexity and deep-rootedness of the caste system and the challenge it posed. He refrained from resorting to direct action, believing that the Hindu orthodoxy held immense control and that a different approach was necessary to make orthodox Hindus realize the immorality and destructiveness of untouchability.
Gandhi utilized Satyagraha techniques in his approach, reflecting the principles of self-suffering and nonviolent resistance. He wrote extensively about Vykom Satyagraha, a significant movement against untouchability, in Young India, a bi-weekly publication he established. Gandhi emphasized the religious dimension of untouchability and discouraged non-Hindus from playing leadership roles in the movement. He believed that only Hindu leaders could effectively challenge the caste system from within.
In 1932, Gandhi staged a historic fast against the Separate Electorate proposal offered by the British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald. This fast, aimed at uniting Hindus and untouchables, was a powerful demonstration of Gandhi's commitment to the cause. As a result of the fast, thousands of Hindus underwent a change of heart, and untouchables gained access to public wells and temples across India. The Hindu Leaders Conference resolved to work towards ending untouchability.
Legacy of Gandhi’s Efforts
Despite his significant efforts, Gandhi's actions did not fully eliminate the caste system or untouchability. However, his movement laid the groundwork for future reforms and inspired millions to challenge the discrimination. Gandhi's legacy continues to influence discussions on caste and untouchability, reminding us of the need for continued struggle and reform.
In conclusion, while Gandhi's views on caste and untouchability were progressive for his time, they were not without their limitations. Evaluating Gandhi’s efforts through the lens of contemporary understanding, it is clear that his contributions were immense and pivotal in the fight against societal injustice.