Sampurna Kranti Lokshahi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sampurna Kranti Lokshahi ane Bhal Nalkantha Prayog" by Ambubhai Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sampurna Kranti Lokshahi ane Bhal Nalkantha Prayog (Complete Revolution, Democracy, and the Bhal Nalkantha Experiment) Author: Ambubhai Shah Publisher: Mahavir Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, Ahmedabad

This book delves into the concept of "Sampurna Kranti" (Complete Revolution) as advocated by Jayaprakash Narayan (JP) and connects it with the author's understanding and observations of the "Bhal Nalkantha Prayog" (Bhal Nalkantha Experiment), a grassroots initiative. The book critically examines the socio-political landscape of India in the mid-1970s, particularly in light of the Bihar Movement.

Core Themes and Arguments:

The book is structured into three main sections, each addressing critical aspects of the Sampurna Kranti and its practical implications:

Part 1: Bihar Movement - A Deep Reflection (Bihār Āndolan: Ek Ūnḍu Chintan)

Critique of JP's Movement: This section presents various perspectives on JP's Bihar Movement, highlighting both support and criticism from prominent figures and publications.
- Concerns: Doubts are raised about the leadership's motives, the influence of socialists and reactionaries, and the clarity of JP's vision and guidance. The call to dissolve the Bihar Assembly is questioned.
- Arguments for JP: JP's involvement in politics is seen as his "true form," moving from Marxism to Gandhism. Students' power is recognized as a significant force, capable of shaking established authorities.
- Vinoba Bhave's Stance: Vinoba Bhave, while acknowledging the dire corruption in the country, advocates for a constructive approach rather than the agitational methods of JP. He believes in allowing JP to work in his own way but emphasizes that the path to change should be constructive.
- Nirmala Deshpande's Opposition: Nirmala Deshpande criticizes the Bihar movement for taking a wrong direction, deviating from the core principles of non-violent revolution and the empowerment of villages. She believes the focus should be on changing hearts rather than confrontation.
- The Need for Thoughtful Engagement: The author emphasizes that the Bihar Movement has brought about deep reflections and debates among Sarvodaya workers and leaders. He highlights the complex nature of the movement, with differing opinions from prominent figures.
Critique of Post-Independence Governance: The author argues that India, despite achieving independence in 1947, secured only "incomplete freedom" in the political sphere. The post-Gandhian era is seen as an era of social striving, but the lack of integrated efforts among constructive workers and the failure to establish a strong "Sarva Sevā Sangh" (All Service Union) that could exert control over Congress and state machinery led to widespread corruption and economic hardship.
Focus on Village-Centric Development: The author stresses the importance of grassroots village organizations, rooted in labor and farmers, to strengthen districts morally and influence provinces and the center. Such a foundation would have prevented current corruption and inflation and fostered genuine village representation. Cooperative activities and Panchayats should be under the control of well-organized village communities.
Critique of Student Involvement: The author cautions against the unbridled involvement of students in movements like JP's, citing past experiences in Gujarat where student power, while significant, lacked adherence to principles of truth, non-violence, and self-control. He believes students' current education is inadequate, leading to restlessness, and advocates for a complete overhaul of the education system with a focus on village-centric values.
The Need for Unity: The author suggests that true success lies in bringing together prominent figures like JP, Vinoba Bhave, Indira Gandhi, and Morarji Desai, rather than creating divisions. The focus should be on constructive "joining" rather than destructive "breaking."

Part 2: Bihar Movement - Further Clarification (Bihār-Āndolan Vadhu Spashtatā)

Clarifying Key Concepts: This section addresses specific points raised by readers regarding the previous discussion on the Bihar Movement.
- External Strength for Organizations: Drawing from Gandhi's writings, the author explains that organizational strength comes not just from registered members but from the goodwill and support of the broader public. However, he criticizes the Congress party for neglecting this foundational aspect of its strength since independence, leading to internal weakening.
- The "One-Sidedness" Critique: The author argues that the Sarvodaya movement, while focusing on "heart-change," was one-sided by neglecting "resistance to injustice," "organization," and "purification of politics." He believes that these aspects are crucial for a complete revolution.
- The Role of Politics: While acknowledging Vinoba's detachment from politics, the author stresses the need for Sarvodaya workers to engage with political issues to prevent them from going in the wrong direction. He advocates for a constructive role in shaping politics rather than complete aloofness.
Critique of the Sarvodaya Movement's Approach: The author points out that the Sarvodaya movement, by neglecting the areas of resistance, organization, and political purification, became largely ineffective in achieving its stated goals. He attributes this to a perceived gap between the ideal future society and the practical methods employed.
The Legacy of Gandhi and the Need for Continuous Effort: The author highlights that after Gandhi's assassination, his legacy was divided between politics (Nehru) and spiritual/social work (Vinoba). While acknowledging the efforts of both, he suggests that a more integrated approach was needed. He believes that even established political organizations like Congress struggle with the limitations of power and that new approaches are necessary.

Part 3: In Relation to JP's Latest Statement (Shri J.P.nā Tājā Nivedan Paratve)

Addressing Class Struggle and Violence: The author discusses JP's clarification regarding "class struggle" and the potential for violence. JP emphasizes that violence would be counterproductive and that the focus should be on preventing its occurrence, as it harms the poor.
Gandhi's Legacy in Politics: The author reiterates Gandhi's advocacy for using non-violent methods in socio-economic and moral reform even after political independence. He suggests that the Congress party, which successfully used non-violence against British rule, should have continued this approach in domestic reform.
The Bhal Nalkantha Experiment as a Model: The Bhal Nalkantha experiment is presented as a practical model that integrates economic, social, political, and cultural aspects of life, drawing inspiration from Gandhi's principles. It aims to achieve community-level non-violent experiments, building upon the foundation of "Vishva Vatsalya" (Universal Love).
The Need for Grassroots Empowerment and People's Control: The author emphasizes the importance of decentralizing government functions to the village level and empowering people to have control over their representatives and governance. He highlights the potential of "Lok Samitis" (People's Committees) to act as a check on power and ensure accountability.
Connecting Bhal Nalkantha to Sampurna Kranti: The author draws parallels between the principles of "Sampurna Kranti" and the practical implementation in the Bhal Nalkantha experiment, particularly in areas of conflict, organization, Satyagraha, and the purification of politics. He believes the experiment offers valuable insights and experiences relevant to JP's call for a complete revolution.

Key Concepts and Principles Discussed:

Sampurna Kranti (Complete Revolution): A call for a total transformation of society, encompassing political, economic, social, educational, and cultural spheres, driven by people's power.
Lokshahi (Democracy): The book explores the ideals of democracy, focusing on grassroots participation, accountability of representatives, and the need for constant vigilance by the public.
Bhal Nalkantha Prayog (Bhal Nalkantha Experiment): A grassroots initiative in the Bhal Nalkantha region of Gujarat, led by Muni Shree Santbalji, which aimed to implement social and economic changes based on Gandhian principles and the concept of "Sarvagi Kranti" (Holistic Revolution).
Satyagraha (Truth Force): The book discusses the philosophy and practice of Satyagraha, emphasizing its application in addressing social injustices and its potential for non-violent resistance. It explores the need for a "Shuddhi Prayog" (Purification Experiment) as a means of moral and social pressure.
Gram Sangathan (Village Organization): The importance of strengthening village-level structures and empowering communities through farmer, herder, and artisan groups is highlighted as crucial for a decentralized and self-reliant society.
Adhyatma and Rajkaran (Spirituality and Politics): The book discusses the relationship between spirituality and politics, advocating for the integration of moral and spiritual values into the political sphere and critiquing the perceived separation of politics from ethical considerations.
Lok Samiti (People's Committees): JP's concept of people's committees is presented as a mechanism for public oversight and participation in governance, ensuring that representatives remain accountable to the people.

Overall Message:

"Sampurna Kranti Lokshahi ane Bhal Nalkantha Prayog" is a thought-provoking analysis of the challenges and possibilities of social and political transformation in India. It highlights the limitations of purely political or agitational approaches and emphasizes the need for a holistic, grassroots-centric revolution that integrates spiritual, moral, social, and political dimensions. The Bhal Nalkantha Experiment is presented as a practical example of how these principles can be applied at the local level, offering valuable lessons for achieving a truly democratic and just society. The book encourages a critical and constructive engagement with the ideals of Sampurna Kranti and a commitment to building a society based on truth, non-violence, and public participation.