Gangtok (IPR): The 134th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhim Rao
Ambedkar, organised by the Social Welfare Department (SWD) in coordination with
All Sikkim Scheduled Caste Welfare Association (ASSCWA), was celebrated in a
grand manner at the premises of Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Gangtok today.
The
event was graced by Governor Om Prakash Mathur as the chief guest and Chief
Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay as the guest of honour.
The
Governor in his address, highlighted the contribution of Dr BR Ambedkar who
dedicated his life fighting for the rights and empowerment of Dalits, also
known as ‘untouchables’ or scheduled castes, in India. He was a staunch
opponent of caste-based discrimination and tirelessly advocated for their
social, economic, and political upliftment. He is often referred to as the
Father of the Indian Constitution, and is probably the most well-known of all
Constituent Assembly members.
‘Sikkim
celebrating 50 years of Statehood itself sets an example of the State living in
unity and harmony’, the Governor added.
The
programme began with lamp lightening ceremony followed by chanting of mantras
by Buddhist monks.
At
the onset, a floral tribute was offered to the statue of Dr BR Ambedkar by the
Governor, and the Chief Minister followed by other dignitaries.
Earlier,
the welcome address was presented by SWD secretary Sarika Pradhan who expressed
her gratitude to everyone for adding great value and significance to the
celebration with their presence.
Subsequently,
a biography on Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar was presented by secretary administration
ASSCWA, Ritam Biswakarma.
Born
on April 14, 1891, Dr BR Ambedkar is renowned as the ‘Father of the Indian
Constitution’ for his pivotal role in drafting and shaping the document, and as
a champion for social justice and the rights of marginalised communities,
particularly Dalits.
Likewise,
Biswakarma, mentioned the famous inspiring quotation by Dr BR Ambedkar, which
says “So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is
provided by the law is of no avail to you.”
During
the programme, Bhim Chetna Souvenir was released by the Governor. Similarly, he
also virtually inaugurated the foundation stone laying ceremony of SC Boys &
Girls Hostel at Nar Bahadur Bhandari Government Degree College, Tadong.
Additionally,
the occasion was also marked with a felicitation ceremony to the State toppers
of SC community. They were Kritika Shankar, Class X topper for the year 2024
with 82.6% and Avantika Cintury Class XII for the year 2024 with 88%
Similarly,
a technical report was exhibited presented by SWD chief engineer Thinley Gyatso
Chankapa.
Also
present in the programme were, Speaker SLA, Deputy Speaker SLA, ministers,
MLAs, advisors to the Government of Sikkim, chief secretary, director general
of Police, principal secretaries, secretaries, HODs, senior officials of the State
administration, members of the All Sikkim Scheduled Caste Welfare Association
(ASSCWA), civil society members and social activists.
The
vote of thanks was proposed by SWD special secretary Satyen Pradhan.
