Gandhi’s relationship with the Harijan community, formerly known as the Untouchables, is a significant aspect of his legacy and the Indian independence movement. Gandhi, often referred to as the “Mahatma,” or great soul, dedicated much of his life to advocating for the rights and dignity of the Harijans, who faced severe social discrimination and oppression in Indian society. His efforts to uplift the Harijan community and eradicate the practice of untouchability not only transformed social attitudes but also contributed to the broader struggle for social justice and equality in India. This introduction sets the stage to explore the profound impact of Gandhi’s advocacy for the Harijans and his vision for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
The Harijan campaign led by Gandhi was a pivotal movement aimed at combating untouchability and social discrimination faced by marginalized communities in India. Here are the main points about the campaign and its impact:
Campaign Objectives:
- The primary goal was to cleanse Hinduism and Hindu society by eliminating untouchability, which Gandhi deemed a violation of human dignity and contrary to principles of equality and social justice.
Media Outreach:
- Gandhi initiated the publication of the weekly journal “Harijan” in 1933, available in English, Gujarati (Harijan Bandu), and Hindi (Harijan Sevak), to raise awareness about untouchability and advocate for social reforms.
Response to Communal Award:
- Gandhi vehemently opposed the 1932 Communal Award, advocating for joint electorates and increased representation for Depressed Classes (Harijans) in legislative bodies. His protest, including a fast, led to the signing of the Poona Pact.
Harijan Yatra:
- In November 1933, Gandhi embarked on the nationwide “Harijan Yatra” to bridge the gap between untouchables and the wider Hindu society, fostering unity and social integration despite facing resistance.
Impact on National and Peasant Movements:
- The campaign facilitated Harijan participation in nationalist and peasant movements, empowering them to speak out against social discrimination, particularly within the agricultural laborer community.
Internal Reforms:
- Gandhi’s efforts included internal reform initiatives within Harijan communities, promoting education, hygiene, sobriety, and addressing untouchability issues within their own ranks.
Legislative Changes:
- The campaign influenced legislative reforms, such as the 1938 Madras Removal of Civil Disabilities Act, granting Harijans equal access to social amenities, and the Malabar Temple Entry Act, opening temples to untouchables.
Constitutional Prohibition:
- Post-independence, untouchability was constitutionally abolished, with the Protection of Civil Rights Act of 1955 criminalizing the practice and providing legal safeguards against discrimination.
In essence, the Harijan campaign played a crucial role in raising awareness, advocating social reforms, and empowering marginalized communities in India. It contributed significantly to the broader movement for social justice, equality, and the eradication of discrimination within Indian society.
Impact of Campaign
- Making Hinduism Better: Gandhi wanted to make Hinduism and society better by stopping untouchability. He believed in fairness and respect for everyone, so he worked to change Hindu society.
- Nationalism and Harijans: This movement helped Harijan people understand nationalism better. They mostly worked as farmers. By joining the movement, they realized their rights and started taking part in nationalist and farmer movements. This made them stronger and more included in society.
- Harijan Self-Improvement: Gandhi also wanted Harijans to improve themselves from within. He taught them about education, cleanliness, and not drinking alcohol. They also worked to end untouchability in their own communities.
- Changing Laws: Because of this movement, laws changed too. In 1938, the Madras government passed a law to make sure Harijans could use all public places. They also passed a law to let Harijans go into temples in Malabar.
- Banning Untouchability: After India got independence, untouchability became illegal. A law called the Protection of Civil Rights Act in 1955 made any kind of discrimination based on caste against the law. This made sure untouchability was gone for good.
Overall, the Harijan movement made big changes in society. It made laws better, helped Harijans improve themselves, and stopped untouchability in India. It was a big step towards making India a fair and equal place for everyone.
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