In 1930, Dalits were organised into the Depressed Classes Association by Dr B.R. Ambedkar. At the second round table conference, Gandhiji and Dr Ambedkar fought as he demanded separate electorates for Dalits. When the British Government accepted his demand, Gandhiji began a fast unto death. Ultimately, Ambedkar realised that Gandhiji is right that separate electorates for Dalits will become the hindrance in the process of integration of society. This resulted in the Poona Pact of September 1932.
The significance of Poona Pact was –
• According to the Poona Pact, Depressed classes also known as Scheduled castes, were given reserved seats in provincial and central legislative councils. However, they had to vote through the general electorate only.