Aligarh: The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) paid rich tributes to the architect of the Indian Constitution Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his birth anniversary, through seminars, symposia, padyatra, quiz competition, and pledge ceremony, etc.
At a seminar organised by the Department of Commerce in collaboration with the Centre of Professional Courses (CPC), Professor M. Mohsin Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor of AMU inspired the audience by invoking Dr. Ambedkar’s core message of “learn and study.” Professor Khan urged everyone to embody the spirit of continuous learning and self-empowerment. His address emphasised the importance of education in achieving personal and social progress, and the lasting impact of Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contributions on modern and scientific India in general and marginalised communities in particular.
Professor M. Asif Khan, Dean, Faculty of Commerce and Director, CPC, AMU highlighted Dr. Ambedkar’s tireless commitment to the upliftment of marginalised communities, particularly his advocacy for women empowerment. Prof. Khan called for embracing these values to build a more equitable society wherein the values of justice, equality and secularism are given importance.
Professor Mohammad Mohibul Haque, Department of Political Science, provided an insightful analysis of Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to constitutional democracy and social reform. He emphasised Ambedkar’s vision of India as a society based on liberty, equality, and fraternity. Mr. Haque highlighted how Ambedkar’s principles continue to shape India’s democratic and social landscape.
Professor Nawab Ali Khan discussed Dr. Ambedkar’s pivotal role in labour rights and industrial reforms, especially his efforts in the reduction of working hours for labourers – an initiative that continues to influence labour policies worldwide even today.
Professor Moinuddin, Member, Executive Council, AMU praised Dr. Ambedkar’s visionary leadership in shaping India’s Constitution and social justice framework.
Dr. Ahmad Mujtaba Siddiqui, Department of Geography, and Prof. Mohammad Aleem, Former Dean, Students Welfare, also spoke on the occasion about the contributions of Dr. Ambedkar in ensuring social justice.
Dr. Rahila Rais, Department of Hindi, discussed Ambedkar’s timeless mantra: “Shiksha, Sangathan, Sangharsh” (Education, Organisation, Struggle), reminding all of the enduring relevance of his message in today’s socio-political context.
Dr. M. Saim Khan, Department of Commerce proposed a vote of thanks.
Meanwhile, the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Aligarh Muslim University celebrated Ambedkar Jayanti by organising a series of events including a padyatra, quiz competition, pledge ceremony, and seminar on the “Role of Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the Upliftment of Backward Classes and Women”. The programme was conducted under the leadership of Dr. Prof. Mohsin Khan, Coordinator of NSS at AMU.
Guest speakers Dr. Yogesh Kumar Yadav, Department of History; Dr. Tarushikha Sarvesh, Advanced Centre for Women’s Studies; Dr. Shamim Akhtar, Centre for Continuing and Adult Education and Extension; and Dr. Mamta Srivastava, Department of English, Tikaram Women’s College, Aligarh, discussed Dr. Ambedkar’s significant contribution to the empowerment of women and marginalised communities.
A pledge based on the safeguarding of ideals enshrined in the Preamble to the Constitution was led by Dr. Mohammad Uzair, Department of Social Work.
A quiz competition on the life and work of Dr. Ambedkar was conducted by Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Department of Forensic Medicine, JNMC, with over 60 students and NSS volunteers participating in it. Rozy Begum, Ayesha Wali, and Reshma Khatoon secured first, second, and third positions respectively, while M. Samanullah, M. Nadir Hayat, and Fathima Diyana received consolation prizes.
