Question

Examine the origin and growth of Non-Brahmin Movement in Tamil Nadu.

Answer 1

Origin of Non-Brahmin Movement:-

Cause:- In the Madras presidency due to the rapid growth of education, there was an increase in the number of educated Non-Brahmins.

Reason:- Intense political and social activities politicized the educated Non-Brahmins to raise the issue of caste discrimination and unequal opportunities in Government employment and representation in the elected bodies which were dominated by Brahmins.

Formation:- The Non-Brahmins organized themselves into political organizations to protect their interests.

1. In 1912 the Madras Dravidian Association was founded with C. Natesanar as its secretary. The active role of C. Natesanar for the growth of the Non-Brahmin movement.
2. In June 1916 he established the Dravidian Association Hostel for Non-Brahmin students.
3. He bridged the gap between the two leading Non-Brahmin leaders of the time Dr. T. M. Nair and P. Thiyagarayar.
4. On 20th November 1916, a meeting was held for about thirty Non-Brahmins under the leadership of P. Thiyagarayar Dr. T. M. Nair, and C. Natesanar at Victoria public hall (Chennai).

South Indian Liberal Federation (SILF):-

South Indian Liberal Federation was founded to promote the interests of the Non-Brahmins.

Newspapers launching:- They launched three newspapers, Justice in English, Dravidian in Tamil, and Andhra prakasika in Telugu.

1. SILF is popularly known as the ‘Justice party’ after its English Newspaper.
2. They held several meetings throughout the presidency to set up branches.

Objectives of Non-Brahmin Manifesto:-

1. Reservation of jobs in Government services.
2. Seats in local bodies

Achievement:- The act of 1919 provided reservation of seats to Non-Brahmins.

In the elections held in 1920, the Justice Party won the majority seats in the Legislative Council. A. Subburayalu of the Justice Party became the first Chief Minister.