Gandhi’s Harijan Campaign and Views on Caste – UPSC Notes
After the Poona Pact (1932), Gandhiji shifted his focus to fighting untouchability in Hindu society.
He saw untouchability as a social evil.
Gandhi’s Harijan Campaign and Views on Caste Background After the Poona Pact (1932) , Gandhiji shifted his focus to fighting untouchability in Hindu society. He saw untouchability as a social evil that needed to be eradicated for Hinduism to survive . Key Actions Taken by Gandhi 📌 1. Setting Up Organizations & Publications All India Anti-Untouchability League (Sept 1932) – To work against untouchability. Harijan Weekly (Jan 1933) – A newspaper to spread awareness. Harijan Sevak Sangh – Organization to help uplift Dalits. 📌 2. Nationwide Harijan Tour (Nov 1933 – July 1934) Traveled 20,000 km across India. Collected funds for Dalit welfare and spread awareness. Advocated temple entry for Dalits (Harijans). 📌 3. Fasts for Dalit Rights May 8, 1934 – Protest against untouchability. August 16, 1934 – Another fast for Dalit rights. 📌 4. Opposition from Orthodox Hindus Reactionary groups attacked Gandhi for his stance. British government sided with conservatives and rejected the Temple Entry Bill (Aug 19…