Question 95 from UPSC CSE 2025 - Modern History

Question

Who among the following was the founder of the 'Self-Respect Movement'?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. 'Periyar' E. V. Ramaswamy Naicker

Strategy: The phrase 'Self-Respect Movement' is exclusively and strongly associated with Periyar E. V. Ramaswamy Naicker. The identification hinges on recalling landmark social reform movements in South India and connecting their founders. Options with other prominent reformers like B. R. Ambedkar relate to other movements such as the Dalit movement or the Scheduled Castes Federation, not Self-Respect Movement. Focus on the unique linkage between the movement's name and Periyar allows quick and precise selection.

Key Info: The Self-Respect Movement (Suya Mariyadai Iyakkam) was established in 1925 by E. V. Ramaswamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar. The movement originated in Tamil Nadu, targeting the inequalities inherent in the caste system and challenging Brahminical social dominance. Its objectives were promoting rationalism, atheism, gender equality, and eradication of untouchability. Periyar advocated for the rights of non-Brahmins and the upliftment of marginalized communities. The Self-Respect Movement played an instrumental role in shaping the Dravidian movement, influencing subsequent political entities like the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Periyar's activism included promoting inter-caste marriages and the self-respect marriages movement (without priests or religious rituals). Notably, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar led the Scheduled Castes Federation and Dalit social reforms, while Bhaskarrao Jadhav and Dinkarrao Javalkar contributed to social reform in Maharashtra but were not associated with the Self-Respect Movement.

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Option B: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

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Option C: Bhaskarrao Jadhav

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Option D: Dinkarrao Javalkar