Whose statement is this, "I shall strive for a constitution which will release India from all thralldom and patronage ……… I shall work for an India in which the poorest shall feel that it is their country" ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The statement in question, "I shall strive for a constitution which will release India from all thralldom and patronage ……… I shall work for an India in which the poorest shall feel that it is their country," is attributed to Mahatma Gandhi, making Option 4 the correct answer. Here is a detailed explanation supporting this:

1. **Justification for Option 4 (Mahatma Gandhi):**
   - Mahatma Gandhi was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement and was known for his vision of an India free from colonial rule and social injustices. His philosophy was deeply rooted in the principles of non-violence, self-reliance, and social equality.
   - Gandhi's commitment to the upliftment of the poorest and most marginalized sections of society is well-documented. He believed in an India where every individual, regardless of their socio-economic status, could feel a sense of belonging and ownership.
   - The statement reflects Gandhi's ideals of Swaraj (self-rule) and his desire for a constitution that empowers all citizens, particularly the underprivileged, aligning with his lifelong mission to eradicate poverty and social discrimination.

2. **Explanation for why the other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (B. R. Ambedkar):**
     - Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was a key architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion for the rights of the Dalits and other marginalized communities. While he worked towards social justice and equality, his focus was more on legal and constitutional reforms rather than the broader philosophical vision expressed in the statement.
   
   - **Option 2 (Jawaharlal Nehru):**
     - Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, was instrumental in shaping modern India and its democratic institutions. His vision was more aligned with industrialization and modernization. Although he cared deeply about poverty alleviation, the specific language and focus of the statement are more reflective of Gandhi's ideals.
   
   - **Option 3 (Dr. Rajendra Prasad):**
     - Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first President of India and played a significant role in the Constituent Assembly. However, his contributions were more administrative and ceremonial in nature. The philosophical and visionary tone of the statement does not align with his typical rhetoric or public statements.

In conclusion, the statement's emphasis on releasing India from thralldom and ensuring that the poorest feel a sense of ownership over their country is quintessentially Gandhian, making Option 4 the correct answer.