Lucknow: The city of Lucknow witnessed a solemn and inspiring morning today as leaders, devotees, and citizens gathered to commemorate the Mahaparinirvan Diwas of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The event, held at the Ambedkar Mahasabha Trust premises, saw a large gathering under a striking blue canopy, with devotional songs and speeches setting a tone of reflection, inspiration, and reverence—truly echoing the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar.
Amidst this atmosphere, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a significant announcement aimed at both preserving historical heritage and improving social welfare, capturing the attention of attendees and media alike.
Enhanced Security for Ambedkar Statues Across the State
CM Yogi stated that in recent times, several anti-social elements have attempted to vandalize statues of Dr. Ambedkar. He emphasized that such acts are not merely damage to physical structures but an affront to social respect and constitutional values. In response, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to construct secure boundary walls around all Ambedkar statues in the state. In addition, protective canopies will be installed over these statues to ensure their safety against all weather conditions and external threats.
“This is not just about preserving statues; it is about safeguarding the social respect and historical legacy that Dr. Ambedkar represents,” the Chief Minister said, highlighting the importance of this initiative in reinforcing societal values.
Minimum Wages for Fourth-Class, Contract, and Sanitation Workers
Another major announcement made by the Chief Minister was the guarantee of minimum wages for all fourth-class, contractual, and sanitation workers in the state. Supporting concerns raised by Dr. Nirmal regarding the welfare of workers, CM Yogi said that a dedicated corporation has been established to oversee the implementation, and the new wage framework will be rolled out within the next one to two months.
He described this measure as part of a broader “Zero Poverty Campaign,” aiming to identify and empower marginalized communities who have so far not fully benefited from government schemes. Facilities such as ration cards, pensions, housing, and Ayushman health cards will be expedited to ensure that no eligible citizen remains deprived.
Political Remarks and Tribute to Ambedkar’s Legacy
The Chief Minister also used the platform to address political issues. Recalling a historical incident from 1923, he remarked on how some political leaders had opposed nationalist symbols and failed to honor the country even in their final wishes. Drawing a parallel, CM Yogi criticized political parties pursuing appeasement policies, stating that such actions are not only contrary to national interest but also disrespectful to Dr. Ambedkar’s principles.
He reiterated that Dr. Ambedkar’s life was dedicated to ensuring a dignified life for millions of Dalits, backward communities, and marginalized groups, and that his teachings continue to inspire the nation to pursue equality and social justice.
Government’s Commitment to Welfare and Inclusion
CM Yogi highlighted that the current government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is implementing the constitutional principles of justice, equality, and fraternity at the grassroots level. Through welfare schemes like ration distribution, housing, toilets, Ayushman health services, and domestic aid programs, the government is striving to fulfill the vision of Dr. Ambedkar.
He further emphasized that connecting all Dalit and underprivileged settlements, both in rural and urban areas, to basic infrastructure and essential services remains a top priority. Any gaps in implementation, he assured, would be addressed promptly.
High-Profile Attendance at the Event
The Mahaparinirvan Diwas program saw the presence of several prominent leaders, including Legislative Council member and Ambedkar Mahasabha President Dr. Lalji Prasad Nirmal, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, Brijesh Pathak, Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, Minister of State for Social Welfare Asim Arun, and Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal, among others. The dignitaries joined in honoring Dr. Ambedkar’s enduring legacy and reaffirmed their commitment to the welfare of the marginalized.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath concluded by saying that Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy will continue to guide India’s progress, and that the “double-engine government” remains committed to translating this inspiration into concrete action for the state and the nation.
