New Delhi, April 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday commemorated the birth anniversary of Babu Jagjivan Ram, lauding the former Deputy Prime Minister for his lifelong commitment to social justice and equality.

Babu Jagjivan Ram, born on April 5, 1908, was a prominent Dalit leader, a freedom fighter, and an influential political figure, with his birthday celebrated as Samata Diwas in various regions of India.

In a post on X, PM Modi expressed, "I extend my sincere tributes to former Deputy Prime Minister Babu Jagjivan Ram Ji on his birth anniversary. His dedication to equality and social justice is commendable. The nation will forever cherish his invaluable contributions."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his respects, referring to Jagjivan Ram as "the trailblazer of social justice."

Shah remarked, "Babu Jagjivan Ji devoted his life to national service and social justice. His remarkable contributions to the freedom movement and his resolute stance against divisive elements while opposing religious conversion are truly inspiring. His fight for the rights of marginalized communities will continue to motivate us for generations to come," as he posted on X.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda also took to social media to honor Jagjivan Ram on his birth anniversary. "As we celebrate Babu Jagjivan Ram ji's legacy as a champion of social justice, a valiant freedom fighter, and an adept administrator, I extend my heartfelt respects. His efforts have significantly transformed the lives of the impoverished, Dalits, and the underprivileged," Nadda posted on X.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh joined in paying tribute to the former Deputy PM. "On the occasion of Babu Jagjivan Ram ji's birth anniversary, I honor his service as the former Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister of our nation. His dedication to social justice and national defense were his utmost priorities. His legacy in our nation's progress and security will never be forgotten," Singh stated on X.

Babu Jagjivan Ram was a lifelong advocate for equality and worked tirelessly to eradicate untouchability. In 1935, he co-founded the All India Depressed Classes League to champion the rights and equality of Dalits.

During his university tenure at Banaras Hindu University and the University of Calcutta, he organized protests against caste discrimination and later led rural labor movements after being elected to the Bihar Legislative Assembly in 1937.

As a member of the Constituent Assembly from 1946 to 1950, he played a crucial role in embedding provisions for reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in education, employment, and legislative bodies within the Indian Constitution.