Gandhi opposed separate electorates because he believed 1. It would m...
Gandhi's opposition to separate electorates was based on two main reasons:
1. Perpetual Bondage of the Harijans:
Gandhi strongly believed in social equality and the upliftment of the oppressed classes, particularly the Harijans or the untouchables. He argued that separate electorates would perpetuate the bondage of the Harijans by segregating them from the rest of society. According to him, the separate electorates would further marginalize the Harijans and hinder their integration into the mainstream society. Gandhi believed that the true solution to their problems lay in removing social discrimination and providing equal opportunities for all, rather than segregating them into separate electorates.
2. Social Disharmony and Lack of Unity:
Gandhi also opposed separate electorates because he believed that it would lead to social disharmony and a lack of unity among different communities. He emphasized the importance of unity and harmony in a diverse society like India. Gandhi envisioned a united and inclusive India where people from all communities would live together in harmony. He believed that separate electorates would create divisions among communities, leading to the fragmentation of society and hindering the progress of India as a nation. Gandhi's vision was to build a cohesive society where people would transcend their caste and religious identities to work together for the betterment of the nation.
In summary, Gandhi opposed separate electorates primarily because he believed it would perpetuate the bondage of the Harijans and hinder their integration into society, as well as lead to social disharmony and a lack of unity among different communities. He advocated for social equality, unity, and the upliftment of all sections of society, and saw separate electorates as contrary to these principles.
Gandhi opposed separate electorates because he believed 1. It would m...
- Separate Electorates mean the community to which the electorate belongs would choose their own leaders via an election. Only their community candidates would be allowed to contest, and only their community members would vote.
- This would mean that the elections for choosing that particular community's leaders would be held separately and would not come under general elections.
- He believed this system would institutionally cement the untouchable status of Harijans forever.