What challenges did Gandhi face in trying to eliminate untouchability?
1. Deep-rooted societal attitudes: Untouchability was deeply ingrained in Indian society, with centuries of discrimination and prejudice making it difficult to change people's beliefs and behaviors.
2. Resistance from upper caste communities: Many upper caste Hindus, who benefited from the caste system, were resistant to abolishing untouchability as it threatened their social privilege and power.
3. Lack of support from political leaders: Some political leaders were hesitant to fully support Gandhi's efforts to eliminate untouchability, as they were concerned about alienating certain segments of the population and losing political support.
4. Limited resources and infrastructure: Gandhi faced challenges in implementing tangible solutions to address untouchability, such as providing education and employment opportunities for those considered untouchables, due to limited resources and infrastructure.
5. Opposition from conservative religious groups: Some conservative religious groups, who upheld the caste system as a religious doctrine, opposed Gandhi's efforts to eliminate untouchability and worked to undermine his work.
6. Lack of awareness and education: Many people were not fully aware of the harmful impacts of untouchability, and there was a lack of education and awareness campaigns to highlight the injustices and inequalities faced by untouchables.