Bengaluru, April 14: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that he owes his position as Chief Minister to the Constitution crafted by B.R. Ambedkar. He made these remarks during the celebrations of Ambedkar Jayanti and the distribution of the B.R. Ambedkar Awards, held at the grand steps of Vidhana Soudha by the Department of Social Welfare.
Recalling Ambedkar’s thoughts, the Chief Minister emphasized that as long as the caste system exists, untouchability will persist. He noted that Ambedkar clearly articulated that casteism would remain as long as social and economic inequalities exist.
Siddaramaiah highlighted that Ambedkar dedicated his entire life to fighting for the rights of the oppressed, Scheduled Castes, and marginalized communities. He further stated that Ambedkar was not just a leader for Dalits but a champion for all who face injustice and discrimination.
Through the Constitution, Ambedkar made a concerted effort to ensure freedom, equality, and brotherhood for all Indians. Siddaramaiah remarked that this is why India’s Constitution is regarded as one of the best in the world.
The Chief Minister lamented that complete equality has not yet been achieved. He reminded the audience that Ambedkar warned that India’s freedom would remain incomplete until social and economic inequalities are eradicated.
Despite being a scholar, Ambedkar not only fought for the oppressed but also made serious attempts to reform Hindu society. However, when these efforts failed, he renounced Hinduism. He also rejected ‘Manuwad,’ which he identified as a cause of inequality.
Siddaramaiah asserted that social and economic empowerment is essential for self-reliance, quoting Ambedkar’s words that education is the most powerful weapon to liberate people from all forms of bondage.
He added that if Ambedkar had not been educated or lacked a spirit of resistance, such a Constitution would not have been possible for India. The Chief Minister noted that Ambedkar’s profound understanding of social systems enabled him to draft such a comprehensive Constitution.
He concluded by stating that building an egalitarian society is impossible without scientific education. Siddaramaiah remarked that the government’s guarantee schemes are designed to strengthen social and economic empowerment, representing serious efforts toward creating an egalitarian society.
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