Question

The Adi Dharma Movement in India belonged to which category of social movement?

• A. Caste Based Movement
• B. Worker's Movement
• C. Peasant Movement
• D. Ecological Movement

Hint:

When categorizing social movements, identify the primary group of people involved and their main grievance or goal. The name of the group (e.g., peasants, workers, a specific caste) or the core issue (e.g., ecology, women's rights) will usually point to the correct category.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The question asks to categorize the Adi Dharma Movement. To do this, we need to understand the origins, objectives, and participants of this movement.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation
The Adi Dharma movement, particularly prominent in Punjab, was a significant social movement initiated by the so-called "untouchable" castes (Dalits) in the early 20th century.
Its primary goals were:
Challenging Caste Oppression: The movement was a direct response to the socio-religious disabilities and discrimination imposed by the Hindu caste system.
Asserting a Distinct Identity: It aimed to create a separate religious and social identity for the Dalits, distinct from both Hinduism and Sikhism, which they felt had failed to grant them equality.
Social Mobilization: Leaders like Mangu Ram Mugowalia organized the community to fight for their rights, self-respect, and social upliftment.
Since the movement's core focus was on the emancipation and identity formation of a specific set of castes (Dalits) against the backdrop of the caste hierarchy, it is correctly classified as a Caste Based Movement.
Step 3: Final Answer
The Adi Dharma Movement was fundamentally about challenging the caste system and uplifting the lower castes. Therefore, it is a Caste Based Movement.