Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was an Indian-jurist, economist, social reformer and political leader. He was one of the architects of the Indian Constitution. Till date, Ambedkar’s socio-political thoughts continue to have huge impact on the society.
He was very vocal about untouchability, women empowerment, education for all and other social causes. Not only had he worked hard for untouchables but also for the betterment and progress of women. He criticised traditional and conservative values. He strongly condemned the degradation of women in Indian society. He is also known to be the father of the Constitution of India, as he and his team brought into force the lengthiest Constitution, without giving an individual a chance to make him/her feel left out.
During Dalit women movement, he encouraged and was supportive towards his wife Ramabhai Ambedkar. This shows and highlights his stand on women empowerment.
His thoughts on Hinduism was not highly appreciated by Hindu community. He thought that Hinduism is the root cause for the practice of caste system in society. He was highly vocal about untouchability and discrimination based on caste, creed and colour.
April 14th will be marking his 132nd birth anniversary. This day is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti throughout the country. It becomes necessary to celebrate his birthday, to let people know a great man was born and brought a lot of progress in the country which nobody back then, wished to talk about. A lot of educational and other organisations who think high of Ambedkar, hold programmes and other occasions to commemorate his birth.
His ideologies and principles are witnesses that helped build a nation free of discrimination.
Ambedkar’s ideology, principles and his struggle to build a egalitarian society indeed helped every citizen to enjoy the freedom.
Due to his high influence, Chandra Shekar Azad formed Dalit organisation named ‘Bheem Army ‘ in 2015 to protect Constitutional rights and oppose caste oppression. The Bheem army is an Ambedkarite and Dalit Rights organisation.
The followers of Bheem Army uphold and cherish the idea of B. R. Ambedkar. The Bheem Army gained huge popularity through their stand against citizenship amendment act (CAA)/ Anti-CAA protests. They even have political wing named ‘Samajwadi Party’ and even began contesting in elections.
Their slogan ‘Jai Bheem’ gained huge popularity among the followers. Most of the followers belong to Backward Castes, Tribes and Dalits.
As India is stepping into its 76th year of independence, is everyone enjoying the freedom which Ambedkar strived for?
People who are claiming to uphold the values and principles of Ambedkar, are they really upholding the principles of Baba Ambedkar? Have we successfully implemented the idea of Ambedkar?