CUK commemorates 133rd birth anniversary of Dr Ambedkar

Ganderbal, April 14: To celebrate the 133rd birth anniversary of Dr. B R Ambedkar, the OBC, SC, ST & PWD Cells, in collaboration with the Directorate of Students Welfare (DSW), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) organised a special lecture (online) on “Dr. B R Ambedkar on India Democracy,” on Sunday.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, keynote speaker, Professor, Dept. of Political Science, University of Delhi, Prof. N. Sukumar, Dean DSW, Dr. Irfan Aalam, Deans of Schools, Heads and Coordinators of the Departments, faculty members, administrative staff and other employees of the varsity participated in the lecture through the online mode.
Addressing the participants, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath, underscored the need to inculcate and imbibe the values as enshrined in the Constitution of India, among the youth, in order to realize and fulfil the dream of Dr. B R Ambedkar. “Dr. Ambedkar was a visionary leader, social reformer, and champion of justice and equality. His tireless efforts in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, and his pivotal role in shaping the democratic framework of India continue to inspire generations worldwide,” Prof. A Ravinder Nath said. Tracing the history of democracy in India since ancient times, CUKashmir Vice-Chancellor, said the G-20 nations have acknowledged the same and have called India as the mother of all democracies.
In his address, Prof. N. Sukumar, said that in every democratic set up, peoples welfare and goodwill is paramount. “Those at the helm should ensure justice, equality, equity, freedom and transparency, as guaranteed by the Constitution for every citizen,” he said, adding that Dr. Ambedkar championed the inclusion of fundamental rights in the Indian Constitution, that continuous to serve as the bedrock of Indian democracy, empowering individuals to assert their dignity and liberties against any form of discrimination. Prof. N. Sukumar, further said that in order to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat, the people of the country have to follow the values of the Constitution, in the letter and spirit.
Speaking on the occasion, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, said that Dr. Ambedkar always fought for the marginalised section of the society. “Dr. Ambedkar championed the cause of marginalized communities, advocating for mechanisms such as reservations and affirmative action to redress injustices and ensure equal access to political power,” Prof. Shahid said. He added that Dr. Ambedkar recognized education as a powerful tool for social transformation and empowerment of the marginalised sections trapped in the vicious cycle of poverty and discrimination.
Earlier in his welcome address, Dean DSW, Dr. Irfan Aalam, said that by embracing Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of democracy as an evolving principle, we can navigate the complexities of the modern world and build more inclusive and equitable societies for future generations.
Liaison Officer OBC Cell, Dr. John Babu Koyye, conducted the programme proceedings and Dr. Altaf Hussain Naqshbandi, Liaison Officer, ST, ST, PWD Cell, proposed the vote of thanks.