Yaksh ChaudharyAIR 6 · CSE 2021 · 379 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a restatement
caste as a system of hierarchy is viewed differently by Gandhi ji and Ambedkar. Gandhi saw it as a Consensual model and emphasised its reform while Ambedkar demanded its complete abolition.
Body · points
Differnce in views of both
(1) emergence of Caste system: Ambedkar argued that, Untouchables were the original inhabitants of India. Aryans came from outside and imposed caste system on the original inhabitants. Gandhi said that Varna system is an authentic model of Hinduism which can improve solidarity in the society.
(2) Impact of caste system Ambedkar saw caste system an exploitative model where upper class dominate and put sanctions on the lower castes. Indian villages were seen as a den of this inhumane exploitation.
Gandhi also saw that Untouchables are discriminated. Gandhi emphasised on varna system where people are treated equally and occupation is a choice of people. Hence he sees varna system as a desirable institution.
(3) Reformation of caste system Ambedkar argued that Hinduism is beyond reformation. Since caste system is inherent part of Hindu religion, hence it can't be reformed.
Ambedkar converted to Buddhism also due to this view. Gandhi argued that caste system can be reformed by doing away its exploitatative practices. He was against Untouchability. He formed Harijan Sevak sangh to reform Hinduism.
(4) methodology for reform : Ambedkar saw political and educational program to improve the status of untouchables. Inter-Caste marriages, rulebook for priesthood was also seen as a way forward by Ambedkar. Gandhiji saw religious method to reform caste system. He emphasised the need of awareness among people about inhumane fau of Untouchability. He said that each human should do all their work by themselves. He even glorified the manual scavenging by doing it himself.
Similarities between both
(1) Both saw untouchability as exploitation and threat to unity and solidarity of society.
(2) Reform of caste system was necessary according to both.
(3) Both emphasised the need of educational program to uplift the people. However method of education was advocated differently.
(4) Both advocated and give importance to capability of individuals under the caste system.
Close · a summary
Hence, Gandhi and Ambedkar had different views on caste system in its working, reform and upliftment of lower caste. However both argued for upliftment of the untouchables and doing away with exploitative nature of caste system.