Explanation – The Vaikom Satyagraha is considered significant because it highlighted the issue of caste discrimination in Kerala. Although this Satyagraha was not led by Mahatma Gandhi, it was inspired by the principles of non-violent civil disobedience that he championed. The movement aimed to end discrimination against lower-caste Hindus by granting them access to public roads around the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple in the princely state of Travancore. The protestors, under the guidance of prominent leaders such as T. K. Madhavan, K. Kelappan, K. P. Kesava Menon, and George Joseph, along with E. V. Ramasamy Periyar, employed peaceful means of resistance like marches, picketing, and demonstrations.

Source: The Indian Express