What was Mahatma Gandhi's primary concern in Delhi when he organised a fast unto death in 1948?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option 1 - Ensuring equal rights for Muslims in India
On August 15, 1947, Mahatma Gandhi did not participate in the independence day celebrations as he was in Kolkata, witnessing violent riots between Hindus and Muslims.
Gandhi was saddened by the communal violence and felt disheartened that his principles of non-violence and active resistance had failed to unite people during troubled times.
In Kolkata, Gandhi urged Hindus and Muslims to abandon violence, which helped improve the situation temporarily and allowed for the celebration of independence with communal harmony.
However, riots between Hindus and Muslims resurfaced, leading Gandhi to undertake a fast in an attempt to restore peace.
In 1947 Gandhi later moved to Delhi, where he was concerned about the treatment of Muslims as equal citizens and the relations between India and Pakistan.
In January 1948, Gandhi undertook his last fast, which had a positive impact in reducing communal tension and violence in Delhi, allowing Muslims to return safely to their homes.