Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. BR Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate. (UPSC CSE 2015)

Mahatma Gandhi and Dr BR Ambedkar had very different approaches were often in disagreement with each other. Despite this both desired upliftment of the downtrodden sections of the society. Gandhiji disliked the caste system, but supported the varna system, as it promoted division of labour. He wanted caste on basis of the skills and not by Birth.

                            Image Source: Maharashtra Times

On the other hand, Dr BR Ambedkar wanted a complete annihilation of caste. Gandhiji took the Untouchability problem on humanitarian grounds and wanted to eliminate it from society. Ambedkar being a member of the Dalit class, considered himself a victim of the corrupt practice. He wanted to protect others from inhuman practice. 

Gandhiji believed in the power of the masses and wanted self-rule or democracy at the village level. Ambedkar feared that self-rule at the village level may perpetuate the social system based on caste and dominion of upper castes. 

However, both wanted Dalits to educate and empower themselves and both were in favour of upliftment of the downtrodden in the social, economic and political sphere.