Q150 · UPPSC Prelims 2021 · Set D · General Studies

← Q149

In the context of Indian history, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding Vaikom Satyagraha?1.It was a Satyagraha against untouchability and caste discrimination.2.Mahatma Gandhi participated in this Satyagraha.Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

A 1 only
B 2 only
C Both 1 and 2
D Neither 1 nor 2

Correct answer: (c) Both 1 and 2

Explanation

  1. A

    1 only

    Only 1 would accept the anti-untouchability character of Vaikom and deny Gandhi’s participation. Gandhi did visit Travancore and take part in the satyagraha’s later phase and negotiations, so dropping statement 2 is wrong.

  2. B

    2 only

    Only 2 would keep Gandhi and deny that the struggle was against untouchability and caste bars on the temple road. The 1924–25 Vaikom movement was precisely that social satyagraha.

  3. C

    Both 1 and 2

    Both statements are correct: Vaikom Satyagraha opposed untouchability and caste discrimination on the approach roads to the temple, and Mahatma Gandhi participated in it. That is the official key.

  4. D

    Neither 1 nor 2

    Neither 1 nor 2 would erase a well-documented Kerala temple-entry/road-access satyagraha and Gandhi’s involvement. The item is not a double-false pair.

Summary. Official key is (c) both 1 and 2. Vaikom (1924–25) in princely Travancore demanded that so-called avarnas use the roads around the Shiva temple. Leaders included T. K. Madhavan, K. P. Kesava Menon and others; Periyar supported from Tamil country; Gandhi’s 1925 visit shaped a settlement. Honour the stored letter (c).