Answer:

Introduction

B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi were two prominent figures who played crucial roles in shaping the idea of social justice, especially with respect to their work for Dalits and removal of untouchability.

Body

Converging vision of B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi in their pursuit of social justice

• Fight against Untouchability: Both Ambedkar and Gandhi vehemently opposed the caste-based practice of untouchability and worked towards its eradication. Example- Harijan Sevak Sangh by Gandhiji.
• Both Emphasised on Education: While Ambedkar established the People’s Education Society, Gandhi advocated for basic education in rural areas to uplift the masses.
• Women’s Rights: Ambedkar ensured inclusion of gender equality provisions in the Indian Constitution. Gandhi advocated for women’s education and their participation in the freedom struggle. Example- Sarojini Naidu’s role in Dharasana Salt Satyagraha.
• Village Development: Gandhi’s concept of Gram Swaraj and Ambedkar’s emphasis on rural upliftment in his writings showcased their convergence in this area.
• Opposition to Violence: Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolent civil disobedience and Ambedkar’s emphasis on constitutional methods aligned in their rejection of violent means.

Contrasting Paths Advocated by B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi:

• Approach to Caste System: Gandhi wanted reformation of the caste system and initiated the Harijan movement, while Ambedkar wanted complete abolition of the caste system. Further, Gandhi believed in the functional utility of “varnashrama” whereas for Dr. Ambekar, “varnashrama” denotes the supremacy of Brahmanism.
• Political Representation: Gandhi advocated for political participation as a means to address social justice but did not support separate electorates for Dalits being demanded by Ambedkar. Example- Poona Pact 1932.
• Economic Empowerment: Gandhi focused on a decentralised village-based economy, but Ambedkar advocated for comprehensive economic reforms and state intervention to uplift the oppressed.
• Education and Empowerment: Gandhi stressed education for moral and intellectual development. Ambedkar emphasized education as a tool for social and political emancipation,
• Religion and Social Change: Gandhi criticised Ambedkar-led mass conversions of Dalits to Buddhism, considering it a means of rejecting caste-based discrimination. Unlike Dr. Ambedkar, Gandhiji believed that the Hindu religion can be reformed from inside to give the depressed sections their due share.
  

Conclusion

B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi converged in their pursuit of social justice and shared vision for a more just and inclusive society, but they had distinct approaches towards abolishing untouchability, ensuring political representation and economic empowerment. However, their differences didn’t stop them from working towards their respective goals.

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