CM felicitated by Ambedkar Mahamanch for implementing UCC
By Our Staff Reporter
Haridwar, 14 Apr: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was felicitated at a programme organised by the Dr BR Ambedkar Mahamanch in Haridwar today ‘for his pivotal role in implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand’. The event, held at BHEL Ground on the 135th birth anniversary of Bhimrao Ambedkar, witnessed a large turnout of local residents braving the scorching sun. The programme began with a rally from BHEL Ground to Kendriya Vidyalaya campus, where thousands of people showered flowers on the Chief Minister, expressing their gratitude.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, the CM observed that the overwhelming public presence reflected their trust in this bold decision. He emphasised that the honour was not for an individual but for an ideology that has championed justice and equality in Indian society for decades.
In his address on the occasion, Dhami hailed Ambedkar as a visionary, stating that he believed true equality could only be achieved when every citizen enjoys equal rights. Inspired by this philosophy, Ambedkar incorporated the revolutionary concept of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) into the Constitution. The CM also claimed that the implementation of UCC in Uttarakhand was not merely a legislative act but a significant stride towards social justice and equality.
Dhami highlighted that Ambedkar’s ideas were often marginalised in the past, but modern India is now embracing his dreams. He described this as a new India that respects its heritage while setting bold benchmarks. He asserted that the large gathering in Haridwar symbolised public faith in his leadership, with the resonance of this decision extending beyond Uttarakhand to the entire nation. He credited the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the government’s resolute will for making this historic step possible.
On the occasion, the CM also announced plans to establish a Baba Saheb Samrasta Sthal in Haridwar to educate future generations about the lives and contributions of social reformers who safeguarded the rights of Scheduled Castes and the Indian Constitution. He announced that under the SCP/TSP schemes, multipurpose buildings will be constructed in Scheduled Caste-dominated areas, and awareness programmes will be conducted in schools and colleges to inform students about welfare schemes and rights.
Dhami described Ambedkar as a beacon of equality, harmony, and justice. He praised Ambedkar’s lifelong struggle to uplift marginalised communities and his role in strengthening the lives of millions through knowledge and determination. He also noted that Ambedkar’s vision of justice and equality continues to inspire the nation.
Dhami acknowledged Ambedkar’s monumental contribution to drafting the Indian Constitution, which enshrined justice, liberty, and equality as its foundational pillars. He stated that the implementation of UCC in Uttarakhand is a tribute to Ambedkar’s dream of an India where all citizens enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and dignity.
The CM further elaborated on Ambedkar’s inclusion of UCC in the Directive Principles of State Policy under Article 44 of the Constitution, recognising it as a legal, social, and moral necessity. He stressed that UCC aims to eliminate the need for disparate personal laws, thereby addressing discrimination and inequality.
Dhami highlighted the transformative impact of UCC on women’s empowerment, particularly for Muslim women in Uttarakhand, who have gained freedom from undesirable practices like Iddat, Polygamy, child marriage, and triple talaq. He asserted that UCC ensures equal inheritance and property rights for women, marking the beginning of a new era.
The CM credited Prime Minister Modi for embodying Ambedkar’s ideals in governance. He lauded initiatives such as declaring a national holiday on Ambedkar’s birth anniversary and developing key sites associated with his legacy as Panch Teerth. Dhami also commended the government’s efforts to uplift Dalits and marginalised communities through increased budgets, stricter laws, and welfare schemes like Standup India, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and Ayushman Bharat.
Dhami reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to preserving Uttarakhand’s cultural values and demographics while taking strict action against divisive elements. He condemned attempts to divide society along regional and caste lines, pledging to uphold the unity and harmony of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
The CM also claimed that the government is making sincere efforts to empower Scheduled Caste communities through scholarships, free coaching, and incentives for inter-caste marriages. He reiterated the government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and self-reliant society.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Nirmal Das Maharaj, former cabinet minister Swami Yatishwaranand, Umesh Kumar, Rampal, District Panchayat President Kiran Chaudhary, Mayor Kiran Jaisal, and others.
