Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 14 (ANI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday paid tributes to BR Ambedkar at Chaitya Bhoomi, Mumbai, on the occasion of his birth anniversary, calling it a 'festival of self-respect for the entire nation' and praising Ambedkar's role in shaping India's constitutional and social framework.

Opening his address, Shinde said, 'The soil turned to gold because of you, Bhim.'

He said that Chaitya Bhoomi had witnessed a large gathering of followers and admirers, describing it as a 'Bhim Sagar' assembled to honour Dr Ambedkar's legacy. He said, 'Today, a Bhim Sagar has gathered at Chaitya Bhumi. My salutations to all of you. This sacred day is not just the birth anniversary of a great man, but a festival of self-respect for the entire nation.'

He added that the birth anniversary of Dr Ambedkar is not just a commemorative occasion but a celebration of dignity and empowerment for the entire nation. 'When he contested elections, his symbol was a human being. When he wrote the Constitution, he did so with the thought that every person should get justice. He gave self-reliance and self-respect to the Dalit and deprived communities. We cannot do anything without Babasaheb's name,' he added.

Shinde highlighted Dr Ambedkar's vision in ensuring justice and equality for all sections of society, saying his contribution to framing the Constitution continues to guide India. Shinde said, ' Where we stand today - a tribal woman as President, a farmer's son who became Chief Minister and then Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Tai also becoming Deputy Chief Minister, Jyoti Tai reaching Parliament - all of this is possible only because of Bhim Ambedkar. Women, too, should get self-respect.'

He said Dr Ambedkar ensured that every individual, irrespective of background, received justice and respect. ' Babasaheb did not use his knowledge only for himself; he took it to every street and alley. He gave justice to the common man,' he added.

Shinde also said that efforts are underway to complete the memorial at Indu Mill, adding that 95 per cent of the work has already been completed. 'By 2047, Modi has taken a pledge to make the nation strong. Even ordinary workers celebrate him. Babasaheb's statue is being built at Indu Mill. 95% of the memorial work has been completed,' he said.

BR Ambedkar, fondly known as 'Babasaheb', was the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and is thus also called the 'Father of the Indian Constitution'. Ambedkar was also the first law and justice minister of independent India. (ANI)