• Dr. Udit Raj (Former M.P.)

The impact of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar’s contributions began to manifest itself more clearly during the 1980s and 1990s. History was belated in doing him justice—whereas, for many others, injustice remains a permanent reality. During his lifetime, his followers were not sufficiently empowered to organize large-scale movements, rallies, advertisements, or publicity campaigns on his behalf. The very community for which he struggled was itself absent from the media landscape; consequently, the general public was unable to gain a proper understanding of his ideas and contributions. Furthermore, he was not taught in schools and colleges either.

The rights he secured for the marginalized sections through the Constitution—and the social transformation that ensued from their implementation—subsequently served to propagate his ideas. In particular, the tradition of celebrating his birth anniversary played a pivotal role in garnering him widespread recognition.

Dr. Ambedkar ensured the rights of Dalits and the marginalized through the drafting of the Constitution; however, without the public institutions, government departments, and welfare schemes established by Jawaharlal Nehru, the full benefits of these rights would not have reached society. This highlights the practical reality of Indian democracy. To comprehend this subject, a coordinated analysis of the roles played by both leaders is essential.

First and foremost, the Indian Constitution, crafted by Ambedkar, provided legal protection to Dalits, backward classes, and marginalized sections of society. It incorporated provisions such as the Right to Equality, safeguards against discrimination, and the system of reservation—mechanisms that served as instruments for delivering justice to classes that had been exploited for centuries. This constituted a robust ideological and legal framework, ensuring that the State would not discriminate against any citizen on the basis of caste, religion, or gender.

However, the mere provision of rights is not sufficient; their effective implementation is equally essential. This is precisely the area where Pandit Nehru’s role becomes significant. In independent India, he placed special emphasis on the establishment of public sector undertakings, educational institutions, and government departments. These institutions generated employment opportunities, in which Dalits and backward classes secured participation through the policy of reservation.

Nehru’s industrial and economic policies laid the foundation for a modern infrastructure in the country. Major public enterprises—such as steel plants, dams, and scientific institutions—not only became symbols of development but also paved the way for social inclusion. These institutions provided equal opportunities to people from diverse sections of society, thereby enabling social mobility.

Furthermore, the Nehru government’s welfare schemes—such as the expansion of education, rural development programs, and the dissemination of health services—played a significant role in improving the condition of marginalized sections. While the Constitution granted rights, these schemes provided the means to implement those rights in real life.

It is also significant that Dr. Ambedkar himself believed that the success of any law depends on its implementation. If the government and the administrative machinery are ineffective, even the finest constitution may remain confined merely to paper. Although there were certain differences in the perspectives of the two leaders—particularly regarding economic and social policies—their ultimate goal remained the same: an India where social justice, equal opportunities, and human dignity are ensured.

It was not merely Dr. Ambedkar who faced injustice; numerous teachers, social reformers, and talented individuals born into Dalit and backward communities also suffered similar treatment and received recognition only belatedly. The example of Karpoori Thakur serves as a poignant symbol of this reality. On the very day he assumed office as the Chief Minister of Bihar, his father was humiliated by the village landlord for failing to arrive on time to perform his customary duties of shaving and cutting hair. This incident starkly exposes the deep-seated roots of social inequality. Over time, not only their own castes but other marginalized sections of society as well began to acknowledge the contributions of these leaders. Had these individuals been born into an elite class, they would, in all likelihood, have attained widespread recognition much earlier.

Specifically, when Dalits and backward classes began to receive the benefits of free education, scholarships, hostel facilities, job reservations, and other welfare schemes, they started to gain an understanding of the social order. They realized the extent to which society had historically been predicated upon exploitation, and identified the underlying factors driving their liberation. This process gave rise to a new middle class—one that grasped and embraced this reality. Although no formal surveys are available to substantiate this claim, it can be estimated that the sheer grandeur with which Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary is celebrated—both within the country and abroad—is perhaps unmatched by that of any other great figure. While his actual birthday falls on April 14, the festivities surrounding his birth anniversary commence several days in advance and continue for a span of several weeks.

Behind Dr. Ambedkar’s greatness lies not the power of any authority, caste, or lineage, but rather the people who benefited from his struggles. The sections of society that gained from reservations in politics, education, and employment impressed upon society the necessity of acknowledging his contributions. While challenging the prevailing social order, he also presented an alternative cultural path.

On October 14, 1956, Ambedkar embraced Buddhism along with millions of followers, thereby guiding them toward liberation from hypocrisy and superstition. This is why his followers continue to strive for social justice and equality to this day—a struggle that will persist until an ever-increasing number of people become acquainted with his ideas and embrace them.

(The author serves as the National President of the Confederation of Dalit, OBC, Minority, and Adivasi Organizations (DOMA Confederation), a National Spokesperson for the Congress Party, and the National Chairman of the Unorganized Workers and Employees Congress (KKC).)