Floral tributes paid to Ambedkar in Chamba

A solemn ceremony to pay floral tributes to Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar on his death anniversary was organised here on Saturday under the joint auspices of the Ambedkar Mission Society Chamba, Shri Guru Ravidas Sabha, Ambedkar Retired Employees Welfare Association Chamba and the Balmiki Sabha.

Chamba MLA Neeraj Nayar, who was a special guest on the occasion, said that Babasaheb Ambedkar, who was a symbol of global knowledge, Bodhisattva, great humanist, champion of social justice and inspiration for millions of deprived people, had passed away on December 6, 1956. Throughout his life, Ambedkar had fought tirelessly to secure the rights of the Dalits, the oppressed, women, labourers and all marginalised sections of society. His unparalleled contribution to establishing equality, harmony and justice remains a guiding light for the nation, he added.

Subsequently, several speakers, including Yogeshwar Ahir, Avinash Pal, Jiteshwar Surya and Anoop Rahi, shed light on Ambedkar’s life and contributions. They said that Ambedkar was not just a great individual but also an idea, a consciousness and a revolution. He rose above all adversities through education, determination and relentless struggle and achieved heights unimaginable for an ordinary person, they added.

They said that Babasaheb taught that “knowledge is the path to liberation” and laid emphasis on “educate, organise, agitate.” This was not merely a slogan but a formula for holistic social uplift, Ahir added.

Avinash Pal said that the Indian Constitution, crafted with Ambedkar’s profound wisdom, rationality and foresight, was one of the most inclusive and progressive constitutions of the world. He had envisioned an India where every citizen enjoyed equal rights irrespective of his caste, religion, class or gender.

He said that Ambedkar’s life inspired us to fight injustice with courage, challenge irrational social norms and commit ourselves to building a society where no one was deprived of opportunities. He also urged people to adopt the principles of equality, fraternity and education in everyday life and embody Babasaheb’s ideals through action, considering this the truest tribute to him.

Members of the Ambedkar Mission Society, Guru Ravidas Sabha, Ambedkar Retired Employees Welfare Association and the Balmiki Sabha attended the programme.