Leaders cutting across party lines on Saturday paid tribute to Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar on his Mahaparinirvan Diwas, remembering the chief architect of the Indian Constitution for his enduring contributions to social justice, equality and nation-building.
Senior leaders from the ruling dispensation and the Opposition gathered in the national capital to honour Ambedkar’s legacy, underlining his pivotal role in shaping India’s constitutional framework and advocating the rights of the marginalised.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal said Ambedkar’s ideas continue to inspire generations and remain central to India’s social and constitutional ethos. Recalling his work, Goyal said Ambedkar strove to promote social harmony, create opportunities for all citizens and lay the foundation for a strong and inclusive nation through the Constitution.
BJP MP Manoj Tiwari highlighted the broad political representation at the commemorative ceremony held in Delhi, describing it as a reflection of national unity. He noted that the President, Vice President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, several Union ministers, Members of Parliament and senior leaders from across parties, including Rahul Gandhi, were present to pay homage to Ambedkar.
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, a long-time proponent of Ambedkarite ideology, referred to the annual observance of Mahaparinirvan Diwas on December 6, the day Ambedkar passed away in 1956. He said a commemorative function is organised every year in the Parliament complex by the Ministry of Social Justice, where dignitaries from different political backgrounds gather to remember Ambedkar’s contributions.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also paid tribute, emphasising Ambedkar’s role in guiding the nation through constitutional values. Gandhi said Ambedkar showed the country the right path by framing the Constitution and that his ideas continue to guide efforts to safeguard constitutional principles.
Mahaparinirvan Diwas marks the death anniversary of Dr Ambedkar and is observed across the country with ceremonies, discussions and public programmes. The day serves as a reminder of his lifelong commitment to social equality, constitutional morality and the upliftment of disadvantaged communities.
Across states, political leaders, citizens and Ambedkarite organisations commemorated the occasion, reiterating the relevance of Ambedkar’s vision in building a just, inclusive and democratic India. The observances underscored his enduring influence on India’s democratic institutions and social reform movements.
