Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar were both significant figures in Indian history who contributed to the upliftment of Scheduled Castes (Dalits), but their approaches and philosophies differed significantly.

Mahatma Gandhi

Philosophy and Approach:

1. Harijan Movement: Gandhi referred to the Dalits as “Harijans” (children of God) and worked towards their social integration. He believed in the eradication of untouchability and campaigned for their inclusion within the Hindu fold.
2. Satyagraha and Ahimsa: His methods were rooted in non-violent protest and civil disobedience, focusing on changing societal attitudes and promoting moral upliftment.
3. Temple Entry: Gandhi advocated for the entry of Dalits into Hindu temples, considering it a step towards equality. The Vaikom Satyagraha and the Guruvayur Temple Entry Satyagraha are notable examples of his efforts.
4. Education and Employment: Gandhi encouraged education and economic self-sufficiency for Dalits. He supported initiatives that provided them with skills and employment opportunities.

Key Contributions:

• Weekly Publications: Gandhi used his publications like “Young India” and “Harijan” to spread awareness and campaign against untouchability.
• Constructive Programs: He included the upliftment of Harijans as a key component of his constructive programs, aiming for their social and economic empowerment.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

Philosophy and Approach:

1. Political Rights and Legal Framework: Ambedkar focused on securing political rights and legal safeguards for Dalits. He believed that social change could be achieved through legal and constitutional means.
2. Critique of Hinduism: Unlike Gandhi, Ambedkar was critical of the caste system entrenched in Hinduism. He argued for the annihilation of caste and eventually converted to Buddhism, along with millions of his followers, as a rejection of the caste-based oppression.
3. Education and Economic Empowerment: Ambedkar emphasized the importance of education and economic empowerment for Dalits. He himself was highly educated and believed that education was a vital tool for social mobility.
4. Reservation Policy: Ambedkar was a principal architect of the Indian Constitution, which included provisions for reservation (affirmative action) in education, employment, and politics for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Key Contributions:

• Constitution of India: Ambedkar played a pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution, ensuring provisions for social justice, equality, and affirmative action for marginalized communities.
• Political Organizations: He founded organizations like the Scheduled Castes Federation and the Republican Party of India to mobilize Dalits politically.
• Literary Works: Ambedkar wrote extensively on social issues, with works like “Annihilation of Caste” and “The Buddha and His Dhamma” critiquing the caste system and advocating for social reform.

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Differences and Conflicts

• Poona Pact (1932): One of the major conflicts between Gandhi and Ambedkar was the Poona Pact. Initially, the British government agreed to Ambedkar’s demand for separate electorates for Dalits. Gandhi opposed this, fearing it would divide Hindu society. After prolonged negotiations and Gandhi’s fast unto death, the Poona Pact was signed, providing reserved seats for Dalits within the general electorate, but not separate electorates.
• Approach to Caste System: Gandhi believed in reforming the caste system from within, while Ambedkar advocated for its complete dismantling. Gandhi saw untouchability as a sin but didn’t outright reject the varna system, whereas Ambedkar viewed the entire caste system as discriminatory and oppressive.

In summary, while both Gandhi and Ambedkar worked towards the upliftment of Scheduled Castes, their methods and ideologies were different. Gandhi’s approach was more about moral and social upliftment within the existing social framework, whereas Ambedkar sought structural changes through legal and political means.