Syllabus
GS Paper 1 – The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
Context
This year marks the start of the hundredth year of the Self-Respect Movement.
Source
The Hindu | Editorial dated 28th September 2024
Keep the fire of the self-respect movement going
The Self-Respect Movement, initiated in 1925, was a transformative social movement that challenged hierarchical structures, advocated rational thinking, promoted women’s rights, and fought for social justice. Though often linked to the Dravidian Movement, it had its unique aims and approaches. As it enters its 100th year, the movement continues to influence India’s political landscape while resisting modern-day challenges like cultural homogenisation.
Emergence of the Self-Respect Movement
- 1925 Origins: Marked by two key events — the launch of weekly Kudi Arasu and Periyar’s departure from the Indian National Congress (INC).
- Focus on Social Reform: Initially aimed beyond political representation, addressing communal representation, caste oppression, and gender inequality.
- First Self-Respect Conference: Held in Chengalpet in 1929, discussing progressive issues such as women’s rights, property rights, and caste abolition.
Key Reforms of the Movement
- Self-Respect Marriages: Introduced to eliminate Brahmin priesthood and rituals, focusing on women’s autonomy, equality, and dignity.
- Women’s Rights Advocacy: Promoted widow remarriage, the right to divorce, and property rights, and supported contraception for women’s control over their bodies.
- Inter-caste Marriages: Encouraged to challenge patriarchal norms and promote social equality.
Relationship with Independence Movement
- Prioritising Social Reform: The movement focused on social reform over political independence, which was critiqued by some as monarchist or separatist.
- Concerns Over Elite Rule: Warned against replacing British rulers with elite Hindu caste groups, contributing to a better understanding of political autonomy and federalism.
- Conflict with Nationalist Leaders: The movement’s emphasis on social justice often clashed with the nationalist agenda of leaders, who focused more on political freedom than on dismantling caste hierarchies.
Relevance of Self Respect Movement in contemporary India
- Cultural Homogenisation: The rise of right-wing ideologies threatens the movement’s principles by promoting a singular identity that undermines regional, caste, and gender diversity.
- Intersectionality: Modern challenges include addressing LGBTQIA+ rights, gender fluidity, and other evolving social identities.
- Misinformation and Bias: In the age of digital media, the movement faces the challenge of combating misinformation and reinforcing anti-caste reforms among younger generations.
Future of the Self-Respect Movement
- Resisting Cultural Uniformity: The movement must continue to resist cultural homogenisation and push for individual identities and social justice.
- Engaging Youth: It needs to connect with younger generations, who may be removed from traditional caste practices but are susceptible to right-wing propaganda.
- Addressing New Social Issues: The movement must integrate modern concerns like intersectionality, gender rights, and false information in its continued fight for social justice.
Conclusion
As the Self-Respect Movement embarks on its second century, it faces new challenges like cultural homogenisation and rising divisive ideologies. To remain relevant, it must engage with evolving social dynamics while upholding its core principles of equality, social justice, and rationalism. The movement’s role in shaping an inclusive society is more critical now than ever, and its revolutionary spirit must continue to guide future generations.
Related PYQ
Defying the barriers of age, gender and religion, the Indian women became the torch bearer during the struggle for freedom in India. Discuss. [ UPSC Civil Services Exam – Mains 2013]
Practice Question
Examine the role of the Self-Respect Movement in shaping the social landscape of India? [150 words]
Guidelines to Answer
- Introduction:
- Start by briefly introducing the Self-Respect Movement (1925) initiated by E.V. Ramasamy Periyar.
- Body:
- Discuss the movement’s focus on abolishing caste discrimination, including self-respect marriages and inter-caste marriages.
- Highlight its advocacy for gender equality, such as the promotion of women’s rights (property, divorce, and widow remarriage).
- Conclusion:
- Summarize the enduring relevance of the movement in addressing social inequalities.