MR. GANDHI AND THE EMANCIPATION OF THE UNTOUCHABLES - Softcover

Inhaltsangabe

Ambedkar begins by analyzing Gandhi's perspective on untouchability, noting the contrast between Gandhi's advocacy for Harijan upliftment and his adherence to the broader Hindu social framework, including the varna system. Ambedkar critiques Gandhi for addressing untouchability primarily as a moral issue while avoiding structural reform of the caste system, which Ambedkar identifies as the root cause of Dalit oppression. The book highlights the Poona Pact of 1932, a key moment in the Dalit struggle for political representation. Ambedkar argues that Gandhi's opposition to separate electorates for Dalits undermined their political autonomy and forced them into dependence on upper-caste Hindus. He views the pact as a setback for the Dalit movement, accusing Gandhi of prioritizing Hindu unity over true emancipation. In conclusion, Ambedkar asserts that real emancipation requires political empowerment, social equality, and the abolition of caste-based discrimination, which cannot be achieved through paternalistic efforts or religious reforms alone. He criticizes Gandhi's Harijan Sevak Sangh and similar initiatives for failing to address systemic issues. The book is a pivotal work in Ambedkar's critique of Gandhi and the Indian nationalist movement, emphasizing the need for Dalit-led solutions to caste oppression.

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