Question

Why is Dharma Sabha an example of counter movement?

• A. It defended the right of older women to practice Sati.
• B. It defended the practice of Sati and refused to bring in any change.
• C. It attacked Sati but not the problem of polygamy.
• D. It was against mass mobilization but wanted new rules to abolish Sati.

Hint:

A counter movement opposes a reform. Dharma Sabha opposed the ban on Sati.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A counter movement is a movement formed to oppose a reform movement and defend the old order. In the 19th century reformers worked to end Sati. Those who wanted to keep the custom as it was formed groups against them.

Step 2: Key Approach:
Dharma Sabha was a body of orthodox Hindus in Bengal. We look for the option that shows it defending the old practice and rejecting change.

Step 3: Check option 1:
The campaign was not about the right of older women to choose Sati. The defence was of the custom as a whole. So option 1 misreads the issue.

Step 4: Check option 2:
Dharma Sabha stood for the practice of Sati as a religious duty and opposed the law that banned it. It refused to accept any change. This is the typical case of a counter movement, so option 2 is right.

Step 5: Check option 3:
If it had attacked Sati it would have been on the side of the reformers. So option 3 does not describe a counter movement.

Step 6: Check option 4:
Wanting new rules to abolish Sati means supporting the end of the practice. That is the opposite of what Dharma Sabha did. So option 4 is wrong.

Final Answer:
Dharma Sabha defended Sati and refused change, so it is a counter movement. The answer is option 2.
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