JOIN USProf B L Mungekar, Rajya Sabha Member and former member of Planning Commission, expressed disappointment that the practice of untouchability existed even after so many years of Independence.
He was delivering a lecture on ‘Role of Dr B R Ambedkar in Building Modern India’ after inaugurating the programme for the 125th birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr B R Ambedkar, organised by the Centre for Dr B R Ambedkar Studies and SC/ST Cell of Mangalore University on Monday.
Prof Mungekar said that the practice of untouchability has declined in urban areas, however, the practice is prevalent in rural India. “Ambedkar had fought to eradicate the practice of untouchability and strove for equality and development. The democracy, equality and secularism that are practised in India are models for the world. Ambedkar has played a vital role in building modern India,” he said, and added that Ambedkar is not to be restricted to the role of a Dalit leader, but should be considered as a leader for the entire country.
He said that Ambedkar had stressed on quality education. “Unfortunately, the quality of education is on a decline. The education imparted in universities should bring about social change and help in the development process. The universities should become a knowledge centre,” he advised.
In his presidential address, Prof K Byrappa, Mangalore University Vice Chancellor, said that a series of programmes will be organised as a part of the celebrations of the 125th birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar. The programme will aim to instil the message of Ambedkar in students, he added.
Prof Mungekar was felicitated during the programme. Prizes were handed over to the winners of various competitions organised by the Centre. Sufi, folk, Vachana and revolutionary songs were sung by Chintan Vikas and troupe. A play–‘Devanampriya Ashoka’-directed by N Shivalingaiah, Gothami Foundation, Mysuru, was staged on the occasion.