Shortly after receiving cabinet approval for the initiative, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a virtual ceremony on Tuesday to initiate the beautification and preservation of 75 statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar across Uttar Pradesh, coinciding with the 135th anniversary of the Dalit leader’s birth.
During the event, CM Adityanath outlined that the first phase of this project will involve the enhancement of one statue in each of the 75 districts, with plans to extend the initiative to all statues situated on public property. This effort is intended to safeguard the monuments and facilitate respectful visitation by the public.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to recognizing social reformers such as Sant Ravidas, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, and Maharshi Valmiki. He noted that the PAC battalions have been named after notable figures including Veerangana Jhalkari Bai in Gorakhpur, Avanti Bai Lodhi in Badaun, and Uda Devi Pasi in Lucknow.
Adityanath also spoke about various government efforts to pay tribute to social reformers. He mentioned the development of a significant park, a statue, a four-lane road, and a guest house in Varanasi to honor Sant Ravidas, designed to accommodate large assemblies.
He highlighted that measures have been taken to address encroachments at Maharshi Valmiki’s site in Chitrakoot, alongside various infrastructural improvements, including road construction and the introduction of a ropeway. Additionally, he referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to name the Ayodhya international airport after Maharshi Valmiki.
The Chief Minister announced that the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar International Cultural and Research Centre in Lucknow is under development, with the first phase nearing completion and the second phase expected to conclude by July. This center will offer research facilities, hostels, an auditorium, and a prominent statue, all aimed at fostering social justice and awareness.
Adityanath took the opportunity to criticize the Samajwadi Party and Congress for allegedly exploiting Ambedkar’s legacy for political gain. He accused the Samajwadi Party of revealing its true nature during past events, specifically referencing the 1995 incident at the State Guest House where members were accused of attacking BSP leader Mayawati.
He also reproached the Congress party for not honoring Ambedkar with the Bharat Ratna, suggesting that while they now carry copies of the Constitution, their genuine intentions should be scrutinized. “Those who claim to care for Dalits should clarify what actions they have taken in Ambedkar’s name and how they have drawn inspiration from his principles,” he stated.
“People remember who threatened to demolish memorials for Dalit figures upon assuming the chief minister’s office. They need to explain their silence when a Dalit youth was harmed in Bangladesh,” Adityanath added, reinforcing his stance on the matter.
He concluded by asserting that Ambedkar remained steadfastly committed to India, unlike others who faltered, and stated that disrespecting national symbols equates to disrespecting Babasaheb.
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