What challenges did Gandhi face in trying to eliminate untouchability?
1. Deep-rooted social and cultural beliefs: Untouchability was deeply ingrained in Indian society and was considered a fundamental part of the caste system. Many people believed in the superiority of certain castes and the inferiority of others, making it difficult to challenge these long-held beliefs.
2. Resistance from upper-caste individuals: Many upper-caste individuals were resistant to the idea of treating lower-caste individuals as equals. They viewed untouchability as a necessary and natural part of society and were not willing to give up their privileged status.
3. Lack of support from political leaders: Some political leaders were not supportive of Gandhi's efforts to eliminate untouchability. They believed that focusing on social issues would detract from the larger goal of achieving political independence from British rule.
4. Opposition from conservative religious leaders: Some conservative religious leaders also opposed Gandhi's efforts to eliminate untouchability, as they believed in the traditional hierarchy of the caste system and saw any challenge to it as a threat to their authority.
5. Resistance from the untouchables themselves: Some untouchables were hesitant to challenge the status quo, as they had been marginalized and oppressed for generations and were afraid of the repercussions of speaking out against the caste system.
6. Lack of resources and infrastructure: Gandhi faced challenges in mobilizing resources and infrastructure to support his efforts to eliminate untouchability. Many social and government institutions were not supportive of his cause, making it difficult to implement concrete measures to eradicate untouchability.