Question

Reformers got full support from all sections of the people of the country. State whether true or false.

Answer 1

Answer: The given statement is false. All the sections of the people did not support the reformers. Orthodox people belonging to Hindu and Muslim relgions were against the social reformers.

• There was self-criticism among upper caste nationalist leaders and it also led to rethinking among upper caste nationalist leaders after the movements of lower caste leaders, their writings and forceful speeches.
• But for example, social reformers like Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar were boycotted by people who were against widow remarriage.
• British officials adopted his suggestion and passed a law in 1856 which allowed widow remarriage.
• Assertions of social reformers were challenged by Orthodox people.
• Associations like the Brahman Sabha in Bengal, Bharat Dharma Mahamandal in the north, and Sanatan Dharma Sabhas were formed by Hindu societies which were very orthodox.
• The objective behind forming these associations was to show how scriptures sanctified caste distinctions and how it must be upheld, which was supposed to be the cornerstone of Hindu religion.
• Although social reformers fought for widow remarriage and despite British officials passing laws for widow remarriage, the number of widows who were remarried was very low.
• Women who were remarried were not easily accepted by the society and they continued to face boycotts from orthodox groups.
• Even now, many years after the colonial period, struggles and debates are continuing regarding the caste system.