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Maharashtra CM Launches Centenary of Historic Ambedkar-Led Satyagraha in Mahad

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the centenary year of the historic Chavdar Tale Satyagraha in Mahad, reaffirming the state's commitment to equality and constitutional values. He emphasized that Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's 1927 movement was a crusade for human dignity, not just water access. The government launched projects worth Rs 55.80 crore for water purification and site beautification at the historic location. The event also saw the distribution of government job appointment orders to heirs of SC/ST atrocity victims, a first-of-its-kind initiative.

Key Points: Chavdar Tale Satyagraha Centenary Launched by CM Fadnavis

  • Centenary year launched
  • Rs 55.8 cr for water & beautification
  • Tribute to Dr. Ambedkar's legacy
  • Appointment orders to victims' heirs
  • Global recognition efforts
2 min read

Foundation of equality laid at Chavdar Tale Satyagraha in Mahad: CM Fadnavis

CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurates 100-year celebrations of the historic Mahad Satyagraha, reaffirming commitment to social justice and equality.

"The Chavdar Tale Satyagraha was a revolutionary milestone against this injustice. - Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis"

Mahad, March 20

On the occasion of the commencement of the centenary year of the historic Chavdar Tale Satyagraha in Mahad, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday reaffirmed the state's commitment to equality, social justice, and constitutional values.

He expressed a firm resolve to build a society free from discrimination. Speaking at the event organised by the Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance, he emphasised that the Satyagraha led by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar was not merely a struggle for water, but a crusade for human dignity.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the centenary celebrations and performed the bhoomi pujan (groundbreaking ceremony) for projects worth Rs 55.80 crore.

The funding has been earmarked for the purification of water at Chavdar Tale and the beautification of the surrounding precinct.

As a mark of respect, a helicopter showered flower petals on the full-sized statue of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar at the site.

"Though a law was passed in 1923 to open public water bodies to everyone, certain sections of society blocked its implementation. The Chavdar Tale Satyagraha was a revolutionary milestone against this injustice," the Chief Minister said.

He noted that the struggle was aimed at dismantling systems of inequality and untouchability, eventually paving the way for all public water bodies in India to be accessible to all citizens.

The Chief Minister also referred to international initiatives, including the preservation of Dr Ambedkar's legacy in London and Japan, and ongoing efforts to establish a Chair in his name at the London School of Economics.

He announced that a 'Maharashtra Bhavan' will be constructed in Bodh Gaya to assist pilgrims and scholars.

The Chief Minister distributed government service appointment orders to 98 legal heirs of victims belonging to SC/ST communities who lost their lives due to atrocities.

This initiative by the Social Justice Department is being described as a first-of-its-kind in the country.

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale suggested the creation of a world-class 'Bhimsrushti' memorial in Mahad to inspire future generations.

Minister for Employment Guarantee Scheme Bharat Gogawale pledged to complete the development projects before the conclusion of the centenary year, aiming to provide modern facilities for the lakhs of followers who visit annually.

Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat said the government intends to elevate the site to global prominence, focusing on empowerment through education and hostels.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the sentiment and the funding are welcome, I hope the 55 crore is used transparently and the projects are completed on time. We've seen many such announcements that get delayed. The appointment orders for heirs is a very positive step though.
R
Rohit P
This is our history that every Indian should know. The struggle for access to water was a struggle for basic humanity. Teaching this in schools is as important as building memorials. Proud that this happened in Maharashtra.
S
Sarah B
As someone from abroad learning about Indian history, this is powerful. Dr. Ambedkar's work on social justice has global relevance. The international efforts in London and Japan mentioned show his legacy is worldwide.
V
Vikram M
The helicopter showering petals on Babasaheb's statue is a fitting tribute. But the real tribute is ensuring the values of that Satyagraha—equality and justice—are lived every day, not just remembered once in a century.
K
Kavya N
Development projects are good, but focusing on education and hostels as the Social Justice Minister said is crucial. Empowerment comes from opportunity, not just memorials. Hope the Maharashtra Bhavan in Bodh Gaya helps many pilgrims.

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