News: The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan visited the Harijan Sevak Sangh at the historic Gandhi Ashram in New Delhi.
About Harijan Sevak Sangh (HSS)
- Founded in: The Harijan Sevak Sangh was founded in September 1932 in Pune.
- Founded by: Mahatma Gandhi
- Formation:
- It originated from events surrounding the Second Round Table Conference of 1931, where Mahatma Gandhi opposed separate electorates for the depressed classes.
- The British Communal Award of 1932 led Gandhi to undertake a fast unto death in Yerwada Jail.
- This resulted into Poona Pact ensuring representation through reserved seats.
- These events created nationwide social awakening against untouchability, led to formation of the Harijan Sevak Sangh.
- It was first named All India Anti Untouchability League, later it was renamed to All India Harijan Sevak Sangh.
- Mahatma Gandhi personally wrote the Constitution of the Harijan Sevak Sangh.
- Objectives of the Sangh
- It works for the removal of untouchability from society.
- It promotes education, sanitation, health care, and social equality among marginalized communities.
- It seeks to integrate Harijans into the mainstream of national life with dignity and self-respect.
- Current status: Now it is working as an independent National level non-profit voluntary organization with its Branches in 26 States.
