Current Affairs
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Background of Satyagraha:
» Christian missionaries, supported by the East India Company, had expanded their reach and many lower castes converted to Christianity.
» Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal, took many progressive reforms (Introduction of a modern education system with free primary education for all – even lower castes).
» Forces of capitalism and these reforms created new social hierarchies.
» Role of Women: Periyar’s wife Nagammai and sister Kannammal, played an unprecedented role in the fight.
» Arrival of Gandhi ji: Mahatma Gandhi arrived at Vaikom in March 1925, held a series of discussions with leaders of various caste groups and met Maharani Regent at her Varkala camp.
» The Vaikom Satyagraha was officially withdrawn on November 30, 1925 after consultations between Gandhi ji and W.H. Pitt (Police commissioner of Travancore)
Outcome of Satyagraha:
Three out of the our roads surrounding the temples were opened up for everyone, but the fourth (eastern) road was kept reserved for brahmins.
Vaikom Satyagraha (UPSC)
