BPSC -114: INDIAN POLITICAL THOUGHT –II

(TUTOR MARKED ASSIGNMENT)

Course code: BPSC-114
Assignment Code: BPSC-114/ASST/TMA/2023-24
Marks: 100

Assignment - I

1. Enumerate and describe the salient features of Modern Indian Political

Thought.

SOLUTION
Modern Indian Political Thought is a dynamic field shaped by diverse
perspectives and socio-political movements. Here are some salient features:

1. Nationalism: One of the central themes is the evolution of Indian

nationalism, exploring the ideas of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal
Nehru, and Rabindranath Tagore. Their thoughts revolved around Indian
identity, unity, and the struggle against colonialism.

2. Social Justice and Equality: Concern for social justice and equality is a
prominent feature. Thinkers like B.R. Ambedkar advocated for the rights of
marginalized communities and the eradication of caste-based discrimination.
This encompasses debates on reservations, affirmative action, and equal
opportunities for all.

3. Pluralism and Secularism: Modern Indian Political Thought reflects a

commitment to pluralism, secularism, and religious tolerance. It emphasizes
the coexistence of diverse religious and cultural beliefs within a democratic
framework.

4. Democratic Principles: Indian political thinkers have engaged deeply with

democratic principles. Discussions on the role of the state, citizen participation,
decentralization, and the rights of individuals form crucial aspects of this
thought.

5. Decolonization and Postcolonialism: A significant focus lies on decolonization

and the postcolonial context. This involves discussions on the legacy of colonial
rule, the impact on Indian society, and the process of nation-building after
independence.

6. Global Engagement: There's an engagement with global political ideas and

ideologies, adapting them to the Indian context. Indian thinkers have
contributed to global discourses on democracy, non-violence, and human
rights.

7. Environmental Concerns: More recent contributions include discussions on

sustainable development, ecological balance, and the relationship between
development and the environment.
8. Intersectionality: Modern Indian Political Thought often considers
intersections between various social, economic, and political factors. It
addresses issues of gender, class, caste, and other identities within the
framework of political discourse.

These features collectively showcase the rich and diverse landscape of Modern
Indian Political Thought, reflecting the evolution of India's socio-political fabric
and the contributions of numerous thinkers across different periods.

2. Discuss Raja Rammohan Roy’s reformist efforts in the religious reform.

SOLUTION
Raja Rammohan Roy, often hailed as the "Father of Modern India," was a
prominent social reformer, thinker, and intellectual giant of the 19th century.
His efforts in religious reform were groundbreaking and instrumental in shaping
India's socio-cultural landscape. In less than a thousand words, I'll highlight his
significant contributions and reformist endeavors.

Raja Rammohan Roy lived during a period when India was grappling with
social, cultural, and religious challenges exacerbated by British colonial rule and
entrenched orthodoxies. He was born in 1772 in Bengal and received a diverse
education that exposed him to various religious and philosophical traditions.
His exposure to different ideologies deeply influenced his worldview and
reformist zeal.
Roy’s most notable contribution was in advocating for the abolition of Sati, the
abhorrent practice of widow immolation. Witnessing the plight of widows and
the brutality of Sati deeply affected him. He vehemently opposed this practice
and sought its eradication. His efforts led to the passage of the Bengal Sati
Regulation Act in 1829 by the British authorities, which declared Sati illegal and
punishable by law.

Beyond Sati abolition, Rammohan Roy was a vocal advocate for women's rights
and education. He believed in the empowerment of women through education
and worked towards establishing schools for girls, advocating for their inclusion
in educational institutions that were traditionally male-dominated.

Roy's religious reform initiatives were marked by his critique of orthodox Hindu
practices and his advocacy for a rational and modern interpretation of religious
texts. He questioned various customs and rituals that he deemed superstitious
and contrary to the essence of true spirituality. He criticized polytheism, idol
worship, and the caste system, advocating for monotheism and a more
egalitarian society.

One of his significant contributions to religious reform was the formation of the
Brahmo Samaj in 1828. This socio-religious reform movement aimed to purify
and rationalize Hinduism from within. The Brahmo Samaj propagated the
worship of One God, rejected idol worship, and emphasized the importance of
reason, ethics, and social reform. It laid the foundation for a more progressive
and inclusive form of Hinduism.
Roy's efforts were not limited to Hinduism. He was well-versed in various
religious texts and engaged in critical discussions with Christian missionaries,
Islamic scholars, and representatives of other faiths. He sought to find common
ground among religions and emphasized the universal principles of morality
and spirituality that transcended religious boundaries.

His deep engagement with Western philosophy, particularly the ideals of the
Enlightenment and rational thought, influenced his reformist endeavors. He
translated major works like the Upanishads into English to facilitate
cross-cultural understanding and to challenge misconceptions about Eastern
philosophies.

Furthermore, Roy was an advocate for social and political reforms. He criticized
the autocratic rule of the East India Company and campaigned for greater
representation of Indians in governance. His efforts paved the way for the
emergence of a modern, enlightened India.

In conclusion, Raja Rammohan Roy's reformist efforts in religious spheres were

multifaceted and transformative. His advocacy for social equality, women's
rights, rationality in religious practices, and the establishment of the Brahmo
Samaj left an indelible mark on India's socio-cultural fabric. His legacy
continues to inspire generations, fostering a more inclusive, rational, and
progressive society in India and beyond.
 Assignment - II

1. Write a note on Pandita Ramabai’s encounter with Christianity.

SOLUTION
Pandita Ramabai, a prominent Indian social reformer and women's rights
advocate of the 19th century, had a profound encounter with Christianity that
significantly shaped her life and work. Born in 1858 in Maharashtra, India, she
was exposed to both Hinduism and Christianity from an early age due to her
father's progressive views and interactions with Christian missionaries.

Ramabai's encounter with Christianity began during her childhood when her
father, an advocate for social reform and education, supported the education
of his daughter in Sanskrit, Marathi, English, and other subjects traditionally
not taught to girls. He also encouraged interfaith dialogue and exposed
Ramabai to different religious texts, including the Bible.

The turning point in Ramabai’s relationship with Christianity came after a series
of personal tragedies in her life. The loss of her parents and husband led her to
seek solace and a deeper understanding of spirituality. During this challenging
period, she found comfort and strength in the teachings of the Bible and
embraced Christianity. The Christian faith provided her with a sense of hope,
compassion, and a moral compass to navigate the tumultuous social landscape
of her time.

Ramabai's conversion to Christianity marked a transformative phase in her life.

She saw in Christianity a path that aligned with her vision of social justice,
equality, and empowerment, particularly for women and marginalized
communities in India. Her faith became a driving force behind her mission to
challenge social norms and advocate for reforms in education, women's rights,
and the caste system.

Deeply influenced by the Christian ideals of love, equality, and service, Ramabai
established the Mukti Mission in 1889. The mission aimed to uplift and
empower widows and other oppressed women, providing them with
education, vocational training, and shelter. It served as a sanctuary for those
ostracized by society and became a symbol of Ramabai's commitment to social
change inspired by her Christian faith.

Her encounter with Christianity also influenced her perspectives on gender

equality. Ramabai was vocal about the need for education and empowerment
of women, believing that they should have equal rights and opportunities in
society. She challenged traditional norms and customs that restricted women's
freedom and autonomy, advocating for their inclusion in education and public
life.
Furthermore, Ramabai's engagement with Christianity wasn't limited to
personal faith; it became an integral part of her advocacy for social reform. She
translated the Bible into Marathi, enabling wider access to its teachings, and
used Christian principles to underscore her arguments for social equality and
justice.

In conclusion, Pandita Ramabai's encounter with Christianity was a pivotal

moment in her life. It shaped her beliefs, values, and actions, driving her
mission to bring about societal reforms and empower marginalized
communities, especially women, in India. Her fusion of Christian principles with
her social reform efforts remains a testament to the profound impact faith can
have on one's pursuit of justice and equality.

2. Trace the influences on Swami Vivekananda.

SOLUTION
Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in the Indian spiritual landscape, was
profoundly influenced by various factors that shaped his beliefs, ideologies, and
actions. His life was an amalgamation of diverse influences that sculpted his
worldview and mission.

1. Childhood and Early Education:

Born as Narendranath Datta in 1863 in Kolkata, young Vivekananda was raised
in a family environment deeply steeped in Hindu spirituality. His parents,
especially his mother, Bhuvaneshwari Devi, instilled in him a strong sense of
religious tolerance and respect for all faiths. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita
and the Ramayana resonated deeply with him from an early age.
2. Spiritual Quest and Mentorship of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa:
One of the most significant influences on Vivekananda was his association with
the mystic saint, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Under Ramakrishna's
guidance, Narendranath underwent spiritual exploration, imbibing the essence
of various religious traditions. Ramakrishna's eclectic approach to spirituality,
emphasizing direct experience of the divine, greatly impacted Vivekananda's
later teachings on religious harmony and universal acceptance.

3. Western Education and Rational Thinking:

Vivekananda pursued a Western-style education at the General Assembly's
Institution (now known as the Scottish Church College) in Kolkata. Exposure to
Western philosophy, science, and rational thinking provided him with a
broadened perspective. This amalgamation of Eastern spiritual wisdom and
Western education laid the foundation for his unique approach to spirituality
and social reform.

4. Influence of Indian Culture and Society:

Vivekananda was deeply moved by the poverty, inequality, and social injustice
prevalent in India during the 19th century. His travels across the country
exposed him to the stark realities faced by the masses. Witnessing the plight of
the underprivileged ignited his fervor to uplift the downtrodden and work
towards societal reform.

5. Encounter with Swami Ramakrishnananda:

His meeting with Swami Ramakrishnananda, a direct disciple of Ramakrishna,
further reinforced Vivekananda's resolve to propagate his master's teachings.
Ramakrishnananda's guidance and association with the monastic brotherhood
of Ramakrishna Math played a pivotal role in shaping Vivekananda's mission of
service, selflessness, and spiritual dissemination.

6. World Parliament of Religions (1893):

Vivekananda's iconic speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago
marked a watershed moment. His address, advocating religious tolerance and
universal acceptance, showcased India's spiritual heritage on an international
platform. The reception he received affirmed his belief in the universality of
spiritual truths.

Swami Vivekananda's multifaceted influences, ranging from his upbringing in a

spiritually rich environment, encounters with spiritual mentors, exposure to
diverse philosophies, and observations of societal challenges, culminated in a
visionary leader who sought to harmonize the spiritual essence of the East with
the progressive ideas of the West. His teachings continue to inspire millions
worldwide, emphasizing the unity of all religions and the potential for
individuals to realize their divine nature.
3. Compare and contrast Gandhi with Marx.
SOLUTION
Gandhi and Marx were influential figures who significantly impacted the
socio-political landscape, yet their ideologies and methods diverged
substantially.

1. Ideological Framework:
- Gandhi: He advocated for non-violence, known as Satyagraha, and believed
in the power of peaceful resistance and civil disobedience. His philosophy was
deeply rooted in spiritual and moral principles, emphasizing self-reliance,
simple living, and communal harmony. Gandhi envisioned a decentralized
society where individuals were self-sufficient through village economies.
- Marx: Marx's ideology centered on the concept of class struggle and
historical materialism. He critiqued capitalism, predicting its downfall due to
inherent contradictions leading to a classless society. Marx advocated for a
proletarian revolution, seeking to abolish private property and establish a
communist society based on common ownership of the means of production.

2. Views on Social Change:

- Gandhi: Change, for Gandhi, stemmed from individual transformation and
moral evolution. He believed in the power of inner conscience and personal
responsibility, emphasizing the need to embody the change one wished to see
in society.
- Marx: Marx focused on systemic change driven by material conditions. His
theory highlighted economic factors as the primary engine for societal
transformation, positing that changes in the economic base of society would
lead to corresponding changes in the political and social superstructure.

3. Approach to Liberation:
- Gandhi: Gandhi's vision for liberation was rooted in spiritual and ethical
principles. He aimed for Swaraj, or self-governance, not only politically but also
within individuals and communities, fostering a sense of self-reliance and
autonomy.
- Marx: Marx envisioned liberation through the abolishment of class
distinctions and the establishment of a classless society. He believed that the
proletariat, by overthrowing the bourgeoisie, would create a society free from
exploitation and inequality.

4. Methods of Advocacy:
- Gandhi: His approach involved non-violent resistance, civil disobedience,
and constructive programs like boycotts, strikes, and peaceful protests. He
believed in appealing to the moral conscience of oppressors to bring about
change.
- Marx: Marx's advocacy involved organizing the working class, promoting
class consciousness, and advocating for revolution. His theory emphasized the
necessity of overthrowing the existing system through a violent uprising.

5. Legacy and Impact:

- Gandhi: Gandhi's legacy lies in his influential role in India's independence
movement and his lasting impact on the global understanding of nonviolent
resistance and civil disobedience.
 - Marx: Marx's legacy includes the spread of socialist and communist
ideologies, influencing various social movements and political systems
worldwide.

In essence, while both Gandhi and Marx sought to address social injustices and
change the status quo, their approaches, ideologies, and methods for achieving
societal transformation were fundamentally different, reflecting varying
philosophies on individual agency, societal structures, and the means of
achieving social change.

Assignment - III

1. Ambedkar on reason and rights:

SOLUTION
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a key architect of the Indian Constitution, emphasized the
importance of reason in society. He believed that reason should govern social
and political life to ensure justice and equality. Ambedkar's advocacy for rights
was deeply rooted in his philosophy that marginalized communities must have
legal protections and access to opportunities. He saw rights as crucial tools for
safeguarding the dignity and freedom of individuals, particularly for those
historically oppressed.
2. Tagore’s disillusionment with Nationalism:
SOLUTION
Rabindranath Tagore, an influential Indian poet, had a complex relationship
with nationalism. Initially supportive, Tagore later became disillusioned with
certain aspects of it. He criticized the narrow, divisive aspects of nationalist
fervor that he believed could lead to conflicts and divisions among people.
Tagore stressed the importance of transcending narrow nationalism to
embrace a more universal humanism that valued cultural diversity and
harmony.

3. Lohiya on ‘Sapta Kranti’:

SOLUTION
Ram Manohar Lohia, an Indian socialist leader, proposed the concept of 'Sapta
Kranti' or Seven Revolutions. These seven revolutions encompassed various
aspects such as economic, social, political, technological, and ideological
changes aimed at transforming India into a more equitable and just society.
Lohia's ideas centered around addressing disparities and empowering the
marginalized through a series of systemic transformations.

4. Iqbal's perspective on modernity:

SOLUTION
Allama Iqbal, a renowned poet and philosopher, had a nuanced view of
modernity. He recognized its potential benefits but was critical of blind
imitation of Western modernity without preserving one's cultural and spiritual
identity. Iqbal believed that Muslims should engage with modernity while
staying rooted in their heritage, advocating for a synthesis of modern thought
with Islamic values to address contemporary challenges.

5. M.N. Roy on Partyless Democracy:

SOLUTION
M.N. Roy, a prominent Indian political theorist, envisioned a form of
governance termed 'partyless democracy.' He proposed a system where
individuals would participate directly in decision-making processes without the
dominance of political parties. Roy believed that parties often served their own
interests, leading to inefficiencies and a disconnect between the government
and the people. His concept aimed to create a more direct and participatory
democracy.