The Poona Pact emerged from a complex background of political negotiations in colonial India, particularly surrounding the rights of the Depressed Classes, commonly referred to as Untouchables. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent leader of the Untouchable community, initially sought separate electorates for his people in the provincial legislatures as a means to ensure adequate political representation. However, this proposal posed a dilemma for Hindu political leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, who believed it would further divide Hindus and sustain the caste system. Gandhi, leading the charge for Hindu unity, initiated a fast unto death in protest against separate electorates, which raised alarms among various factions and created a sense of urgency for a compromise.In response to Gandhi’s fast, negotiations took place between the two leaders, culminating in the Poona Pact. The agreement established a reservation of seats for the Depressed Classes within the joint electorate, thus allowing them representation while maintaining unity among the broader Hindu community. The pact allocated around 148 seats in legislatures across British India, significantly expanding political opportunities for Untouchables. The agreement not only altered the political landscape but also sparked discussions on caste reform and social equality, marking a pivotal moment in India's democratic evolution.The Poona Pact was further significant as it highlighted the ideological rift between Gandhi, who advocated for social reform from within the Hindu fold, and Ambedkar, who argued for constitutional safeguards for the Depressed Classes. The pact became a key reference point in later discussions about caste and social justice in modern India, influencing subsequent movements toward equality and civil rights for marginalized communities.