Bengaluru, April 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, emphasized that his position as the state's Chief Minister is a direct result of the Constitution designed by B.R. Ambedkar.

Speaking at the celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna and the architect of the Constitution, B.R. Ambedkar, Siddaramaiah attended the award presentation ceremony organized by the Social Welfare Department on the impressive steps of Vidhana Soudha.

While reflecting on Ambedkar’s insights, the Chief Minister remarked that as long as the caste system persists, the practice of untouchability will endure. He highlighted Ambedkar’s clear assertion that social and economic disparities will continue to fuel casteism.

He noted that Ambedkar devoted his life to advocating for the oppressed, including the Scheduled Castes and marginalized groups. Siddaramaiah stated that Ambedkar was not merely a Dalit leader but a true advocate for all individuals subjected to injustice and discrimination.

Ambedkar's Constitution sought to guarantee liberty, equality, and fraternity for every Indian. Siddaramaiah asserted that this is why India’s Constitution is celebrated as one of the finest globally.

The Chief Minister lamented the incomplete achievement of total equality. He recalled Ambedkar’s caution that without addressing social and economic inequalities, India’s freedom would remain unfulfilled.

Despite being a scholar, Ambedkar not only fought for the disenfranchised but also made earnest attempts to reform Hindu society. However, when these efforts were unsuccessful, he chose to renounce Hinduism and dismissed “Manuvad,” which he labeled a system that perpetuates inequality.

Siddaramaiah stated that for self-reliance, social and economic empowerment is vital, quoting Ambedkar’s assertion that education is the most potent tool for liberating people from various forms of bondage.

He noted that had Ambedkar not been educated or possessed a spirit of resistance, the establishment of such a Constitution in India would have been unimaginable.

Siddaramaiah underscored the paramount importance of education and urged individuals to aspire to receive the same level of education as leaders like Ambedkar, Ram Manohar Lohia, and Jawaharlal Nehru—education grounded in rationality, scientific thinking, and humanism.

Furthermore, he acknowledged that Ambedkar’s profound grasp of the social system was instrumental in crafting a comprehensive Constitution.

The Chief Minister asserted that achieving an equal society is unattainable without scientific education.

He pointed out that the government's guarantee schemes are designed to enhance social and economic empowerment and are genuine efforts toward fostering an equitable society.

Siddaramaiah warned against “Manuvadis,” whom he described as anti-Constitutional forces disseminating falsehoods. He urged the public not to fall for claims that Congress thwarted Ambedkar and prevented his last rites in Delhi.

He remarked on the unimaginable nature of the country without Ambedkar. “We must honor his life and principles. Ambedkar is relevant in all eras,” he stated.

The Chief Minister proudly announced that 97.22% of students in government-run hostels have successfully passed their examinations, achieving high scores in the Pre-University Course exams, which he deemed a significant achievement for the government.

He also extended congratulations to the recipients of the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Award and the distinguished students present at the event.

Among those present were Ministers H.C. Mahadevappa and K.H. Muniyappa, Legislative Council Chief Whip Saleem Ahmed, MLA Rizwan Arshad, and other notable figures.