106 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
Dr. Ambedkar and the problem had been allowed to assume unduly large proportions because of his threats.*
On his way back from Segaon, Dr. Ambedkar was received enthusiastically at Wardha station by the Depressed Classes.
Walchand Hirachand and Jamnalal Bajaj, the millionaire supporters of Gandhi, asked Dr. Ambedkar why he did not join Gandhi’s camp, so that he might have boundless resources at his disposal for the uplift of the Depressed Classes. Dr. Ambedkar told them frankly that he vitally differed from Gandhi on many points. Upon this they referred to Nehru and asked him to emulate his example by putting aside his own views. He silenced them by saying that he was not a man to whom Nehru’s case would apply and added that he could not sacrifice his conscience for success.
The millionaires showed their surprise at the crowds of the Depressed Classes that had gathered to receive Dr. Ambedkar, and they remarked that although they spent money on their cause the Harijans did not respond to them properly. Dr. Ambedkar at once answered that it was the difference between a mother and a nurse.” [1]
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*Gandhi. M. K., Letters to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel P. 115.
- : Keer, Pp 268-269.