Second Fourth: Vykom Satyagraha Summary and Analysis

The Vykom Satyagraha is undertaken to get the government to allow "untouchables" to use roads around the temple in Vykom in Travancore, South India. Gandhi argues that the Vykom campaign provides an interesting study in Satyagraha because of how calmly it proceeds. Gandhi defies his critics on either side, arguing that the campaign is just. The Satyagrahis do not attack the whole system but instead are simply fighting prejudice. Gandhi also defends his decision to not send aid from outside Travancore. He argues that the local Hindi must solve the problem and that untouchability is a Hindu sin. The untouchables cannot receive aid because the people of Vykom must embrace Satyagraha of their own will.

Gandhi next notes that various authorities in Vykom have objected to Satyagraha in Vykom. Next follows a sub-section which notes...