The Justice Movement began in the Madras Presidency in the early 20th century. It aimed to secure education, employment, and political representation for non-Brahmins. Led by figures like Dr. C. Natesa Mudaliar, T.M. Nair, and Theagaraya Chetty, it laid the groundwork for later social justice movements, including the Dravidian movement. It challenged Brahmin dominance and transformed governance in South India.

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• Formed in 1916 by non-Brahmin leaders to demand political, social rights
• Justice Party emerged from South Indian Liberal Federation (SILF)
• Published Justice journal; became voice for non-Brahmin demands
• Won 1920 Madras elections, formed India’s first elected government
• Introduced communal G.O. to ensure job, education quotas for non-Brahmins
• Pioneered women’s rights, free noon meals, abolished Devadasi system
• Founded Annamalai & Andhra universities; reformed temple administration
• Empowered lower castes via land grants, road and well access
• Declined due to corruption, elitism, pro-British stance, lack of Dalit inclusion
• Merged with Self-Respect Movement; became Dravidar Kazhagam in 1944