BJP underminingAmbedkar’s ideals,says UP Cong head

Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Congress on Tuesday used the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti to launch a sharp attack on the BJP, alleging that the ruling party was ‘undermining the ideals of BR Ambedkar.State Congress president Ajay Rai led party leaders in paying floral tributes at Ambedkar’s statue in Hazratganj before addressing a seminar at the party office. Speaking at the event, Rai said Ambedkar’s vision of equality, justice and constitutional rights was under threat and accused the BJP of attempting to dilute these principles. He said Ambedkar had dedicated his life to securing rights for the marginalised and bringing them into the mainstream, adding that the Congress remained committed to carrying forward his legacy.Rai also credited Rahul Gandhi with continuing the struggle for the rights of Dalits, backward classes and the underprivileged.Other party leaders echoed similar sentiments, alleging that the current dispensation was weakening democratic institutions and ignoring issues faced by deprived communities. Speakers at the seminar stressed the need to safeguard the Constitution and uphold Ambedkar’s ideals in present times.The programme saw participation from several Congress functionaries and workers, who paid homage to Ambedkar and reiterated their commitment to social justice.