Gandhi’s Eleven Demands, also known as Gandhi’s Constructive Programme, were a set of socio-economic and political demands put forward by Mahatma Gandhi as part of his strategy for India’s independence. These demands were outlined in detail in Gandhi’s Harijan article on October 22, 1940.
- Withdrawal of British Rule from India:
- Gandhi’s primary demand was the complete withdrawal of British colonial rule from India. He believed that India’s independence was essential for the country’s progress and development.
- Acceptance of the Principle of Equal Rights for All:
- Gandhi emphasized the importance of equality and justice for all individuals, irrespective of caste, creed, religion, or socio-economic status. He advocated for the eradication of discrimination and the establishment of a society based on the principle of equal rights.
- Reconstruction of Indian States:
- Gandhi called for the reconstruction of Indian states based on linguistic and cultural considerations, rather than arbitrary administrative boundaries imposed by the British. He believed that restructuring states would promote unity and harmony among diverse communities.
- Introduction of Adult Suffrage:
- Gandhi advocated for the introduction of universal adult suffrage, ensuring that every adult citizen had the right to vote regardless of gender, caste, or religion. He saw political participation as essential for fostering democracy and empowering the masses.
- Abolition of Untouchability:
- One of Gandhi’s lifelong missions was the eradication of untouchability, a deeply entrenched social evil in Indian society. He called for the abolition of untouchability and the upliftment of the oppressed and marginalized communities.
- Disarmament:
- Gandhi believed that disarmament was crucial for maintaining peace and preventing conflicts. He advocated for the reduction of military expenditures and the promotion of nonviolent resolution of conflicts.
- Prohibition:
- Gandhi was a staunch advocate of prohibition, viewing alcoholism as a social evil that undermined individual and societal well-being. He called for the prohibition of the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol.
- Multiplication of Khadi:
- Khadi, or handspun cloth, was central to Gandhi’s vision of self-reliance and economic independence. He called for the widespread adoption of khadi as a means of promoting village industries, empowering rural communities, and reducing dependence on foreign goods.
- Removal of Untouchability:
- Gandhi reiterated his demand for the removal of untouchability, emphasizing the need for social reform and the integration of marginalized communities into mainstream society.
- Promotion of Village Industries:
- Gandhi advocated for the promotion of village industries and decentralized economic development. He believed that revitalizing traditional crafts and cottage industries would alleviate poverty, unemployment, and economic inequality.
- Basic Education:
- Gandhi emphasized the importance of basic education for all individuals, particularly in rural areas. He advocated for a holistic approach to education that focused on character-building, vocational training, and moral development.
The significance of Gandhi’s Eleven Demands lies in their holistic approach to nation-building, encompassing political, social, economic, and moral dimensions. These demands reflected Gandhi’s vision of a free, democratic, and self-reliant India based on principles of nonviolence, equality, and justice. While some of these demands were realized after India’s independence in 1947, others remain relevant challenges for Indian society to address.
