Image: Gandhi during his campaign against untouchability. Wikimedia Commons.
Opposition to untouchability became a major part of Gandhi’s social programme. He argued that political freedom should be accompanied by efforts to remove social discrimination.
From political movement to social reform
Gandhi increasingly placed social reform alongside political campaigns. His work included visits to communities affected by untouchability, public meetings, fundraising and campaigns for access to public facilities.
The Harijan campaign
In 1933 Gandhi began publishing Harijan, a weekly journal devoted to social reform and other public questions. The Gandhi Heritage Portal identifies the publication as part of his constructive programme.
Harijan Sevak Sangh
The Harijan Sevak Sangh became an important organisation associated with campaigns against untouchability. Gandhi supported its work and donated Sabarmati Ashram to the organisation in 1933, according to biographical records hosted by the Gandhi Heritage Portal.
Temple entry and public access
Gandhi supported campaigns seeking access for people formerly excluded from temples and public institutions. His approach combined public persuasion, personal example and political pressure.
Why the subject remains historically important
Gandhi’s anti-untouchability work was significant, but it should also be studied alongside the writings and political campaigns of B. R. Ambedkar and other Dalit leaders, whose approaches and criticisms differed from Gandhi’s.
For primary-source material, consult the Gandhi Heritage Portal and its collection of Gandhi’s writings. See also NewsNationOnline’s feature on Gandhi’s return to India.
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