Only Ambedkar’s Constitution Can Protect People: Niketh Raj Maurya
Udupi: In a fervent address at the Gandhi Bharath program held on Thursday at the Sri Veerabhadra Temple premises in Hiriyadka, KPCC spokesperson Niketh Raj Maurya emphasized the critical importance of preserving Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution as a bulwark against the rising tide of inequality and attempts to undermine the foundational principles of justice and equality in India. Under the banner “Jai Bapu Jai Bhim Jai Constitution,” Maurya articulated a vision for a united society that honors the legacy of both Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Ambedkar.
Maurya asserted that “equality can only be maintained in this country if Ambedkar’s Constitution remains.” He expressed concern over what he described as a concerted effort to dilute the Constitution’s provisions, warning that there are movements afoot to resurrect “Manu’s Constitution,” which he characterized as antithetical to the values of democracy and equality enshrined in Ambedkar’s work. “Only Ambedkar’s Constitution can protect us against this,” he declared, urging the audience to educate future generations about its significance.
The KPCC spokesperson elaborated on the transformative power of Ambedkar’s Constitution, stating, “We must preserve the Constitution written by Ambedkar because it is this Constitution that allows us to sit together as equals today.” He highlighted the role of the Constitution in promoting educational opportunities for marginalized communities, empowering women, and fostering a sense of belonging among all citizens. “The Constitution that Ambedkar wrote has given us equality. It has enabled our children to receive education and allowed backward classes and women to gain power,” he explained.
Maurya’s remarks were underscored by a somber reflection on the current state of the nation, which he described as being in crisis. He lamented the loss of Gandhi, stating, “Having lost Gandhi, the nation is orphaned.” He praised Gandhi’s efforts to transcend caste and religious divisions, noting that the Mahatma was assassinated due to the very hatred he fought against. “Through this, we lost a great sacrifice,” Maurya said, calling for a renewed commitment to Gandhi’s vision of unity and social harmony.
The gathering was inaugurated by former MP K. Jayaprakash Hegde, who symbolically spun the charkha, a representation of Gandhi’s philosophy of self-reliance and non-violence. Hegde criticized those who oppose the Constitution, asserting, “Those who do not even know history are opposing the Constitution today. None of them have read the Constitution.” He emphasized the irreplaceable value of the current Constitution, stating, “We cannot accept a changed Constitution. No other Constitution can offer the respect that our Constitution gives to the people.”
Echoing these sentiments, former minister Vinay Kumar Sorake warned of a “conspiracy to change the Constitution,” suggesting that there are efforts underway to draft a Constitution that aligns with the ideology of a Hindu nation. He asserted that Ambedkar’s Constitution has been instrumental in safeguarding the rights of all citizens and providing economic strength to the nation. “Therefore, we must work to preserve that Constitution. We must all commit to this, even if it means a second fight for independence to save the Constitution,” Sorake proclaimed.
Advocate Sudhir Maroli also contributed to the discourse, reinforcing the need for vigilance in protecting the Constitution. The event was attended by a diverse array of political leaders and community members, including Congress district president Ashok Kumar Kodavoor, former MLA Gopal Poojari, and other notable figures such as M.A. Gafur, Prasadrāj Kanchan, and Dinesh Hegde Molahalli.
The program commenced with an introductory speech by KPCC Campaign Committee President Vinay Kumar Sorake, followed by a warm welcome from Jayant Rao. Udyavara Nagesh Kumar served as the event’s conductor, while Royce Fernandes delivered a recitation of the Preamble of the Constitution, reinforcing the gathering’s commitment to the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Prior to the main event, a procession was held from the Devadiga Hall to the meeting venue, symbolizing the unity and collective resolve of the participants in advocating for the preservation of Ambedkar’s Constitution. The gathering concluded with a renewed call to action, urging all citizens to remain steadfast in their defense of the constitutional values that underpin the fabric of Indian society.