New Delhi, March 15 (NationPress) On Sunday, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for the posthumous conferral of the Bharat Ratna upon the revered Bahujan leader, Kanshi Ram.

In his correspondence, Gandhi noted that this appeal coincides with the observance of Kanshi Ram's birth anniversary and serves as a moment to honor his enduring legacy and significant contributions to Indian society and politics.

"I trust this message finds you in good health. As we celebrate the birth anniversary of Kanshi Ram ji today and reflect on the impact of his life, I wish to formally request that he be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously," Gandhi expressed in his letter.

Kanshi Ram, who founded the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), was instrumental in transforming Dalit politics by empowering marginalized communities to seek political representation and advocate for their rights.

"Kanshi Ram ji revolutionized Indian politics. Through his movements, he heightened political awareness among Bahujans and the underprivileged. He instilled in them the realization that their vote, voice, and representation are crucial, emphasizing that this nation rightfully belongs to all. Thanks to his efforts, many individuals who had never contemplated public service began to view politics as a pathway to justice and equality," Gandhi remarked.

He further underscored the broader constitutional principles that Kanshi Ram championed through his activism and political endeavors.

"Our Constitution assures equality, dignity, and participation for every citizen. Kanshi Ram ji dedicated his life to making these promises tangible for those at the lowest rungs of society. In doing so, he fortified the pillars of Indian democracy and made our political system more inclusive and equitable," Gandhi added.

The Congress leader noted that the call to bestow the Bharat Ratna upon Kanshi Ram has been persistently voiced by various societal groups over the years.

Gandhi pointed out that for many years, Dalit intellectuals, social activists, and political figures have advocated for this recognition, labeling the demand as "consistent and deeply felt."

This issue emerges amid the Congress party's recent political outreach in Uttar Pradesh as it gears up for the 2027 Assembly elections.

Earlier, on March 13, a gathering named 'Samajik Parivartan Divas' (Social Change Day) was held at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Lucknow to commemorate Kanshi Ram's birth anniversary. At this event, which Gandhi attended, a resolution was passed urging that Kanshi Ram be honored with the Bharat Ratna, the nation's highest civilian honor.

However, the proposal has faced criticism from BSP leader Mayawati, who questioned the Congress party's historical treatment of Dalit icons like B. R. Ambedkar.

In his letter to the Prime Minister, Gandhi also referenced the Lucknow event and the strong support expressed there for the proposal.

"Recently, I participated in a program in Lucknow where this demand was reiterated emphatically by the leaders and attendees present, reflecting a broad sentiment," he wrote.

He concluded by stating that awarding the Bharat Ratna to Kanshi Ram would serve to recognize his contributions to the nation and honor the aspirations of those who regard him as a figure of empowerment.

"Granting the Bharat Ratna to him posthumously would acknowledge his significant impact on our country. It would honor the hopes of millions who view him as a beacon of empowerment and optimism. I sincerely hope the government will give due consideration to this request," Gandhi added.