Who founded the All India Harijan Sangh in 1932?

The correct answer is Mahatma Gandhi.

Key Points

• The All India Harijan Sangh was founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1932 to combat untouchability and improve the socio-economic conditions of the Harijan (Dalit) community.
• It was a significant step in Gandhi's broader movement for the upliftment of marginalized communities and the eradication of caste discrimination in India.
• The organization worked to promote education, economic opportunities, and social integration for Harijans (literally meaning "children of God," a term Gandhi used for Dalits).
• The establishment of the All India Harijan Sangh was part of Gandhi's larger effort to achieve social equality, which he considered integral to India's independence and nation-building process.
• Gandhi also used the platform to advocate for temple entry rights for Dalits and campaigned for the abolition of untouchability across the country.

Additional Information

• Untouchability and Gandhi's Efforts:
  • Untouchability was a deeply entrenched social evil in India, discriminating against Dalits and denying them basic rights and dignity.
  • Gandhi considered untouchability a moral and spiritual blight on Indian society and worked tirelessly to eradicate it.
  • He campaigned for equal access to public spaces, temples, and water sources for Dalits.
• Poona Pact (1932):
  • The Poona Pact was an agreement between Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to provide reserved seats for Dalits in the provincial legislatures without separate electorates.
  • It was signed after Gandhi's fast unto death against the British Communal Award, which proposed separate electorates for Dalits.
  • It marked a significant moment in the struggle for Dalit rights within the Indian independence movement.
• Harijan Sevak Sangh:
  • The All India Harijan Sangh was later renamed the Harijan Sevak Sangh and remains active in social reform efforts today.
  • It continues to work towards the education and upliftment of marginalized communities in India.
• Key Contributions of Gandhi to Social Reform:
  • Gandhi emphasized the importance of self-reliance, education, and constructive work to address social inequalities.
  • His campaigns included advocating for women's rights, rural development, and communal harmony in addition to tackling untouchability.