MAHAD SATYAGRAHA 19
by the applicants (Plaintiffs) that if a temporary injunction as asked for is not granted and the water of the tank is allowed to be contaminated, irrepairable injury would result to the Plaintiffs. Taking into consideration, how sensitive the touchables classes generally are on this point, both on account of their religious susceptibilities, as well as the wide gulf which has existed between the two communnities from time immemorial, I am inclined to attach very great weight to this condition. I have no doubt that the spread of education will, in course of time, materially alter these conditions and bring the two communities in a clear and friendly contact with each other and that Untouchability will be a thing of the past. But as things at present stand, I am bound to attach great weight to the sentiment of the applicants who feel that, the injury that will sustain if the water is allowed to be contaminated, will be that it would not admit of being adequately compensated by damages.
Taking all these circumstances into consideration, I think I would be failing in duty if I were not to refuse the injunction prayed for. It is a very painful duty that I am called upon to perform, but the call of duty leaves no room for choice. I therefore order that a temporary injunction as asked for, with notice be issued.
14-12-27. (Sd.)—G. V. Vaidya ” [1]
On the side of Depressed Classes “Elaborate preparations for holding the Conference were made. As no Hindu landlord allowed the use of his land for the pandal, a site for the Conference was secured with great difficulty from a Muslim. As the local merchants refused to have any dealings with the men connected with the Conference, the Reception Committee had to purchase corn and other materials from out-side, sufficient to last for ten days. Anantrao Chitre managed the work very efficiently. Subhedar Ghatge was entrusted with the food arrangement and maintenance of order and discipline. All the Chief Government Executives of the District gathered at Mahad on December 19. Police were posted on all sides of the Chawdar Tank. Delegates and spectators began to pour in
1 : Khairmode, Vol. 3, Pp. 234—237.