Question

There is scholarly controversy over the role of the middle peasants in peasant movements in India. In this regard, which of the following statements is/are true?

• A. Hamza Alavi argued that the middle peasants are more likely to initiate and actively participate in peasant movements.
• B. Dhanagare argued that the middle peasants are weaker and more heterogeneous than other agrarian classes.
• C. Kathleen Gough argued that poor peasants and agricultural labourers have the potential for organising peasant movements.
• D. Gail Omvedt argued that caste is the basis of peasant mobilisation, not class.

Hint:

Debates on peasant movements revolve around which agrarian class has the greatest revolutionary potential.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Hamza Alavi’s argument.
Hamza Alavi emphasized the revolutionary potential of middle peasants, arguing that they possess both economic independence and political consciousness, making them more likely to initiate and sustain peasant movements. Hence, statement (A) is correct.
Step 2: Dhanagare’s critique.
Dhanagare pointed out that middle peasants are internally differentiated and relatively weaker as a cohesive class when compared to rich peasants or landlords. This supports statement (B).
Step 3: Kathleen Gough’s perspective.
Kathleen Gough highlighted the mobilisational potential of poor peasants and agricultural labourers, especially in situations of severe exploitation. Therefore, statement (C) is correct.
Step 4: Evaluation of statement (D).
Gail Omvedt did not reject class analysis entirely; rather, she emphasized the intersection of caste and class. Hence, statement (D) is incorrect.