Sikkim marked the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar with a commemoration at the Sikkim Legislative Assembly on April 14, 2026. The event, organised by the State Social Welfare Department in coordination with the All Sikkim Scheduled Caste Welfare Association (ASSCWA), brought together state leaders, officials and community representatives to pay tribute to the architect of India’s Constitution and a champion of social justice.
Governor Om Prakash Mathur, the chief guest, and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, the guest of honour, led the tributes. In his address, the Governor highlighted Ambedkar’s role as the principal architect of the Constitution and stressed that true democracy requires not only political equality but also social and economic justice. He credited Ambedkar with fighting caste-based discrimination and advancing principles of liberty, equality and fraternity, as well as promoting inclusive development, universal adult franchise, labour welfare and women’s empowerment.
The Governor noted national and state efforts aimed at uplifting Scheduled Castes, citing scholarships, fellowships and skill development initiatives at the central level, and welfare schemes and improved educational infrastructure being implemented in Sikkim to ensure equitable access at the grassroots. He also urged strict enforcement of laws protecting the rights and dignity of Scheduled Castes and called for continued legal aid and awareness programmes, reaffirming the state’s commitment to social harmony and inclusiveness.
Social Welfare Secretary Sarika Pradhan, in her welcome remarks, praised Ambedkar’s enduring legacy of intellectual rigor and dedication to human dignity, saying his ideals continue to guide inclusive policy in Sikkim. The programme began with a ceremonial lamp lighting and Buddhist monks chanting mantras, followed by floral tributes from the dignitaries.
A short biography of Dr. Ambedkar was presented by Dr. Bhumika Poudyali, who emphasised his life and the rallying creed “Educate, Agitate, Organise.” The event also saw the release of a publication titled “Bhim Chetna” and a poetry collection, “Footsteps.” ASSCWA felicitated several distinguished personalities, including local legislators and officials, and the ceremony honoured Scheduled Caste state toppers-Raman Darjee (Class X, 95.4%) and Apiya Biswakarma (Class XII, 96.2%)—for their academic achievements.
The commemoration was attended by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, cabinet ministers, the Member of Parliament, MLAs, advisors and various chairpersons, underlining the state’s collective recognition of Ambedkar’s contributions and the ongoing commitment to his vision of an equitable society.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/sikkim-observes-135th-birth-anniversary-of-br-ambedkar
Category:
Tags:
Publish Date:
