Who Was Babu Jagjivan Ram? Remembering His Legacy on His Death Anniversary

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Babu Jagjivan Ram was a key figure in India's fight for social justice.
- He dedicated his life to empowering marginalized communities.
- His political career spanned decades with significant contributions to society.
- He was a pioneer in the movement against caste discrimination.
- His legacy continues to inspire future generations.
New Delhi, July 6 (NationPress) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge commemorated Babu Jagjivan Ram, the esteemed former Deputy Prime Minister, as an unwavering advocate for equality and justice on his death anniversary.
In a post on X, Kharge expressed: "A sincere tribute to Babu Jagjivan Ram ji, the remarkable champion of equality, former Deputy Prime Minister of our nation, who devoted his life to justice for the underprivileged, exploited, and marginalized communities, on his death anniversary. His relentless fight for social justice and national welfare will forever be honored."
The Congress party also recognized his significant contributions via its official X account, stating: "Respectful tributes to the former Deputy Prime Minister of India, Babu Jagjivan Ram Ji, on his death anniversary."
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised Babu Jagjivan Ram as an emblem of courage and tireless commitment to social upliftment.
"Known for his bravery and dedication, former Deputy Prime Minister Babu Jagjivan Ram committed his life to empowering the marginalized and oppressed, successfully interweaving all societal groups into the fabric of equality. He was undoubtedly a trailblazer of social justice. On this solemn anniversary, we pay our humble respects to him!" CM Yogi shared on X.
Widely known as “Babuji,” Jagjivan Ram was a national figure, a freedom fighter, and a crucial element in India’s path towards inclusive growth. He was born on April 5, 1908, in Chandwa village, Bihar, to Sobhi Ram and Vasanti Devi, and overcame modest beginnings to emerge as a prominent personality in Indian politics.
Jagjivan Ram’s public service began during his academic life, where he was an active participant in the freedom struggle. A passionate advocate for the rights of the disenfranchised, he established the All-India Depressed Classes League in 1935 to foster social equality and combat caste discrimination.
In 1936, at just 28 years old, he was appointed as a member of the Bihar Legislative Council, marking the beginning of a distinguished political journey. He uniquely served as MP from the same constituency, Sasaram in Bihar, for eight consecutive terms (1st to 8th Lok Sabha, 1952-1984).
When the Janata Party government led by Morarji Desai formed in 1977, Jagjivan Ram became a Cabinet Minister, overseeing the Defence portfolio. He also served as Deputy Prime Minister and held the Defence portfolio from January 24, 1979, to July 28, 1979.
He was the President of the Congress party during its split in 1969, yet remained in the Indira Gandhi cabinet while holding the party's leadership for nearly three years.
He departed this world on this day in 1986.