Question

Which of the following statements of Gandhiji made at the opening of Banaras Hindu University are true?
(A) Gandhiji charged the Indian elite with a lack of concern for the laboring poor.
(B) Gandhiji was not worried about the contrast between the “richly bedecked noblemen” and millions of poor Indians.
(C) Gandhiji said, “Our salvation can only come through lawyers, doctors, and rich landlords.”
(D) Gandhiji emphasized that farmers are going to secure the salvation of India.
(E) Gandhiji told the privileged invitees, “Strip yourself of this jewelry and hold it in trust for your countrymen.”

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only
• B. (C), (D) and (E) only
• C. (B), (C) and (D) only
• D. (A), (D) and (E) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine which statements made by Gandhiji at the opening of Banaras Hindu University are true, we analyze each option based on historical context and documented speeches. 

• (A) Gandhiji charged the Indian elite with a lack of concern for the laboring poor: This is true. Gandhiji was known for criticizing the Indian elite for their disconnect from the plight of the poor.
• (B) Gandhiji was not worried about the contrast between the “richly bedecked noblemen” and millions of poor Indians: This is false. Gandhiji often highlighted economic disparity and social inequality, particularly the luxurious lifestyles of the elite compared to the impoverished masses.
• (C) Gandhiji said, “Our salvation can only come through lawyers, doctors, and rich landlords.”: This is false. Gandhiji emphasized self-sufficiency and grassroots efforts for India's salvation rather than relying on the educated elite.
• (D) Gandhiji emphasized that farmers are going to secure the salvation of India: This is true. Gandhiji believed in the significance of villages and farmers, advocating for their role in India's freedom and prosperity.
• (E) Gandhiji told the privileged invitees, “Strip yourself of this jewelry and hold it in trust for your countrymen.”: This is true. Gandhiji often encouraged the wealthy to contribute to the welfare of the nation and shed material excess.

Therefore, the correct options are (A), (D), and (E).

Answer 2

The correct statements from Gandhiji's speech at the opening of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916 are:

True Statements:

• (A) Gandhiji charged the Indian elite with a lack of concern for the laboring poor.
• He criticized wealthy Indians for their indifference towards the suffering of peasants and workers.
• (D) Gandhiji emphasized that farmers are going to secure the salvation of India.
• He believed India’s true progress depended on the upliftment of its farmers and rural masses.
• (E) Gandhiji told the privileged invitees, “Strip yourself of this jewelry and hold it in trust for your countrymen.”
• He urged the elite to renounce extravagance and serve the poor.

False Statements:

• (B) Gandhiji was not worried about the contrast between the “richly bedecked noblemen” and millions of poor Indians.
• False. He openly condemned this disparity, calling it a "blot on our civilization."
• (C) Gandhiji said, “Our salvation can only come through lawyers, doctors, and rich landlords.”
• False. He actually criticized the over-reliance on Western-educated elites and advocated for self-reliance rooted in village economies.