SHIMLA, 14.04.25-Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla paid rich tributes to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar on the occasion of his 135^th birth anniversary at a function organized by the Samajik Dalit Peedit Utthan Sansthan at Kala Kendra, Solan today.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary is celebrated not merely as a ritual, but as a tribute to his remarkable contributions to the nation. He said that Dr. Ambedkar was the architect of the Indian Constitution, who ensured justice, equality, liberty and fraternity through this historic document. “Everything may change, but the Preamble of the Indian Constitution will remain unchanged,” he added.

Shri Shukla emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar’s life and message transcend any single community or class. He was a visionary who stood for the rights and upliftment of the poor and the downtrodden. His call for education, struggle and unity remains deeply relevant even today. “Only by becoming educated can we prepare for struggle and only through struggle can society be transformed,” he said.

The Governor said that despite facing significant hardships in his early life and even after drafting the Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar continued to encounter resistance. However, his perseverance led him to Parliament and into the annals of Indian history as a champion of social justice.

Highlighting the universal appeal of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas, the Governor said, “Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Ambedkar are two towering personalities whose thoughts are studied and respected not just in India, but around the world.”

On the occasion, Shri Shukla urged the people of Himachal Pradesh to pledge towards making the state a beautiful and drug-free region. He appealed to women to lead the charge against substance abuse by stopping demand at the grassroots level. “If we truly wish to honour the Indian Constitution and the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar, we must commit ourselves to the cause of drug de-addiction,” he said.

The Governor appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honouring Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy by developing the 'Panchteerth'-five pilgrimage sites associated with Baba Saheb-to preserve his memory and inspire future generations.

The Governor also felicitated individuals who have rendered exemplary service to society.

Vice Chancellor, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel also spoke on the occasion. He highlighted the importance of Dr. Ambedkar’s knowledge, research and experience, reflected in the Indian Constitution. He also elaborated on Dr. Ambedkar’s vital role in the fight for Dalit rights and social upliftment.

Former minister Rajiv Saizal also addressed the gathering. Earlier, the Founder President of the Samajik Dalit Peedit Utthan Sansthan and former Member of Parliament Virender Kashyap welcomed and honoured the Governor.

Mayor, Municipal Corporation, Solan Usha Sharma, Secretary to Governor Shri C.P. Verma, Deputy Commissioner, Solan Manmohan Sharma, representatives of various religious and social organizations and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.