Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Ambedkar's Approach: Ambedkar believed that political empowerment was the key to dalit liberation. He demanded separate electorates for dalits — a distinct electorate that would allow dalits to elect their own representatives. He organised dalits into the Depressed Classes Association (1930) and argued that political representation must come first to overcome social disabilities.

Gandhi's Approach: Gandhi believed that untouchability was a social and moral evil that had to be removed by changing the hearts of upper-caste Hindus. He called untouchables harijan, organised satyagraha for temple entry and access to public spaces, and stressed integration into mainstream Hindu society rather than separate political identity.

The Compromise (Poona Pact, 1932): When the British granted Ambedkar's demand for separate electorates, Gandhi fasted unto death, arguing it would slow social integration. The resulting Poona Pact gave Depressed Classes reserved seats in legislatures, but voting was by the general electorate — a middle path between the two visions.

Source: The Limits of Civil Disobedience, Chapter 2

• The examiner wants a clear contrast between both leaders' approaches, not just a description of the Poona Pact.
• Key terms to use: separate electorates, reserved seats, Depressed Classes Association, harijan, integration vs. political empowerment.
• End by linking both positions to the Pact — it shows you understand the "compromise" aspect the question asks for.
• Don't write more than this; 3 marks = ~70–80 words of actual answer content.