New Delhi, 11 April (H.S.):
On the 200th birth anniversary of great social reformer Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, leaders nationwide paid floral tributes and commemorated his monumental contributions to education, equality, and social justice.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla bowed to Phule, stating he transformed education into society's most potent catalyst for positive change, opening new vistas of opportunity for the deprived, oppressed, and women.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remarked that Phule dedicated his entire life to uplifting the underprivileged, exploited, and backward classes, with his crusade for education and social justice remaining an enduring inspiration.
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah noted Phule viewed education as the most effective instrument of social reform, pioneering unprecedented efforts for women's education and founding the Satyashodhak Samaj to advance equality and justice.
Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan observed that Phule's ideals resonate in contemporary visions like 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' and 'Antyodaya'.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari hailed him as the father of India's educational revolution, remembering his devotion to Dalit upliftment and women's empowerment.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge dubbed Phule the 'Krantisurya' (Sun of Revolution), emphasising that raising voice against injustice forms the core of his philosophy.
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi affirmed Phule devoted his life to Bahujan rights, with his thoughts illuminating the path to equality today.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated society progresses only when every individual receives education, dignity, and opportunity—a lesson from Phule.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described him as a pioneer of women's education, terming his contributions the bedrock of ideological revolution.
AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal paid homage, urging society to draw inspiration from Phule's ideals to forge a just, educated nation.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
