Why is the abolition of untouchability a major goal for Gandhi? What were some of the steps he undertook for the removable of untouchability?

The abolition of untouchability was a major goal for Gandhi because he believed it was a fundamental injustice that violated the principles of equality, human dignity, and social justice. Untouchability, a deeply entrenched practice in Hindu society, relegated certain groups, particularly Dalits, to the lowest rungs of the social hierarchy, subjecting them to discrimination, segregation, and dehumanization. Gandhi saw the eradication of untouchability as essential not only for the moral and spiritual upliftment of society but also for the realization of India's aspirations for freedom and democracy.

Gandhi's approach to combating untouchability was multifaceted, incorporating moral persuasion, grassroots activism, and socio-political reform. Some of the steps he undertook for the removal of untouchability include:

1. Satyagraha and Moral Appeal: Gandhi emphasized the power of truth (satya) and nonviolent resistance (satyagraha) in challenging social injustices, including untouchability. He called upon Indians to confront the moral implications of untouchability and urged them to reject caste-based discrimination in all its forms. Through speeches, writings, and public demonstrations, Gandhi sought to raise awareness and mobilize public opinion against untouchability.

2. Temple Entry Campaigns: One of Gandhi's early campaigns against untouchability involved advocating for the rights of Dalits to enter temples and worship alongside upper-caste Hindus. He argued that access to places of worship should be open to all individuals, regardless of caste or social status. Gandhi himself participated in temple entry movements and encouraged others to do the same, thereby challenging the discriminatory practices of exclusion and segregation.

3. Community Service and Social Reform: Gandhi promoted the idea of selfless service (seva) as a means to break down caste barriers and foster solidarity among different communities. He encouraged individuals, especially members of privileged castes, to engage in activities that uplifted the marginalized and promoted social equality. Through initiatives such as communal dining (bhandaras), spinning (khadi), and sanitation work (cleanliness drives), Gandhi sought to bridge divides and promote a sense of shared humanity.

4. Harijan Movement: Gandhi launched the Harijan Movement ("Movement for the Welfare of Untouchables") to champion the rights and dignity of Dalits and other marginalized groups. He coined the term "Harijan," meaning "children of God," to challenge the derogatory label of "untouchable" and affirm the inherent worth and divinity of all individuals. The movement aimed to address the socio-economic, educational, and political injustices faced by Dalits and mobilize support for their emancipation.

5. Constructive Programmes: Gandhi advocated for a holistic approach to social reform through his Constructive Programme, which included initiatives for economic self-sufficiency, rural development, and social upliftment. These programmes sought to address the root causes of untouchability by promoting economic empowerment, education, and community solidarity. Examples include the promotion of cottage industries, education for Dalit children, and campaigns for the abolition of manual scavenging.

6. Dalit-Adivasi Rights: Gandhi actively supported the rights of Dalits and Adivasis (indigenous peoples) to land, education, and political representation. He opposed discriminatory practices such as the denial of land ownership to Dalits and advocated for their inclusion in the political process. Gandhi recognized the intersectionality of caste, class, and gender oppression and sought to address these intersecting forms of discrimination through his activism.

Overall, Gandhi's efforts to abolish untouchability were rooted in his vision of a just and inclusive society based on the principles of truth, nonviolence, and social equality. While his campaigns faced resistance from conservative elements within society, Gandhi's unwavering commitment to the cause of untouchability abolition inspired generations of activists and laid the groundwork for subsequent movements for social justice and human rights in India.