RGU hosts webinar on Ambedkar's vision of justice & empowerment

RONO HILLS, Apr 14: The Department of Political Science, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), organized an enlightening online talk titled “Ambedkar’s World: The Pursuit of Justice Through Struggle, Identity and Empowerment” on the eve of Ambedkar Jayanti. The event brought together faculty members, research scholars, and students in a meaningful academic tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar's enduring legacy.

The webinar featured distinguished subject expert, Dr Prachand Narayan Piraji from the Department of English, RGU, who delivered an insightful talk on the multifaceted contributions of Dr Ambedkar—as an intellectual, social reformer, the messiah of the downtrodden, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. 

Emphasizing Ambedkar’s lifelong battle against caste-based discrimination, Dr Piraji shed light on the deep-rooted challenges faced by the Dalit community in India. He portrayed Ambedkar as a warrior who wielded the pen, not the sword, in his mission to eradicate social inequality. 

Dr Piraji also underscored the transformative power of education in Ambedkar’s philosophy, quoting his impactful line, “Education is the milk of the lioness.”

He highlighted significant social movements initiated by Ambedkar, such as the Temple Satyagraha and the establishment of Depressed Classes Institutes, which played a crucial role in uplifting marginalized sections of society. 

Dr Piraji also spoke about the evolution of Ambedkar’s stature—from Dr BR Ambedkar to Babasaheb, a term of deep respect meaning "father" in Marathi. He concluded the session by reaffirming Ambedkar’s powerful and enduring call to action: “Educate, Agitate, and Organise.”

Earlier, the programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Prof Nani Bath, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the participants and the guest speaker. 

In his remarks, Prof Bath emphasized the monumental role played by Dr Ambedkar in shaping India as a constitutionally guided democracy. He particularly highlighted Ambedkar’s contributions towards the protection of tribal rights, especially in the context of Northeast India.

Citing the historical importance of the Bordoloi Committee, Prof Bath noted that its recommendations significantly influenced the incorporation of the Sixth Schedule into the Indian Constitution—ensuring autonomy and protection for tribal communities.

The webinar concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Nuki Gammeng, the programme coordinator.