Modern History : Socio-Religious Reform Movements In 19th-Century India
UPSC CSE Prelims 2020
Gopal Baba Walangkar (1840–1900) was a pioneering social reformer and activist dedicated to the rights of the Dalit community in India. He established Vital-Vidhvansak, which is recognized as the first monthly journal specifically targeting the 'untouchable' people. The journal aimed to raise awareness and mobilize the community against social discrimination. Walangkar, an ex-serviceman, also advocated for enhanced employment opportunities for Dalits in government services and the military.
Jyotiba Phule (b): Jyotiba Phule was a prominent social reformer who worked extensively for the upliftment of marginalized communities. His notable literary work includes 'Gulamgiri' (1873), but he was not associated with the publication of Vital-Vidhvansak.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (c): Mahatma Gandhi championed the cause of the 'untouchables', whom he referred to as 'Harijans'. He established the Harijan Sevak Sangh in 1932 for their welfare. However, he was not involved with Vital-Vidhvansak.
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (d): Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was a leading figure in the struggle for Dalit rights and social justice. He launched several journals to articulate his views, such as 'Mooknayak' (1920) and 'Bahishkrit Bharat' (1927). Vital-Vidhvansak was not among his publications.
Gopal Baba Walangkar's work with Vital-Vidhvansak represents an early and significant effort in Dalit social activism, particularly in Maharashtra, laying groundwork for subsequent movements led by figures like Phule and Ambedkar.