480 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
the members of the Depressed Classes, so that they remained an integral part of the Hindu-fold. There was no question of applying it to those that left or were leaving the Hindu-fold.
Dr. Ambedkar never once raised the question of conversion at the time of the Pact. I think the cry is now raised to secure more concessions, says he.
Logical Absurdity
Proceeding, Mr. Rajbhoj asks if new converts from Hinduism are to be given the benefits derived under the Poona Pact why not the old converts who may for political, if not religious, reasons want them ? He says that there are large number of Depressed Classes who have embraced other faiths, but have not been able to throw off the disabilities attached to the Harijan Community, and mentions the case of the Christians in some parts of Madras. Why should concessions and benefits obtained by those who laboured under disadvantages and difficulties be given to those who did not want those disadvantages, but only the benefits of the labours of others.
The Poona leader adds, “the formula is a vicious formula and will lead to more complications and endless trouble. It should not be accepted by the Hindus or by anybody. We are Hindus or not Hindus. If we elect to remain within the Hindu-fold, we are entitled to our right and privileges as Hindus, and once we leave the Fold, we can have no claim.”
Refuting the statement that the Hindus have not made any sacrifice by accepting the Poona Pact, Mr. Rajbhoj says that instead of the 71 seats given to the Depressed Classes under the Communal Award, the Pact gave them 148 seats. Concluding Mr. Rajbhoj asserts that the conversion idea has no universal appeal among the Harjijan community. Even in Maharashtra only the Mahars favoured such a view, but the Chamars were solidly opposed to any conversion. There was no support to the idea in other provinces and he was surprised how the Hindu leaders were involved into it.” [1]
1 : The Bombay Chronicle, dated 15th August 1936.