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| CUKashmir holds special lecture on Dr. B. R. Ambedkar | |
Ganderbal, April 13 (Scoop News)- Central University of Kashmir’s (CUKashmir) OBC, SC/ST/PwD cell in collaboration with the Dean, Students Welfare Monday organised a special lecture on “B. R. Ambedkar and the Moral Foundations of Indian Democracy: Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity as Social Ethics” as part of the ongoing celebration of the 135th Birth Anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar at the varsity's Tulmulla campus.
In his keynote address, Prof. Anil Kumar, Professor of Sociology and Social anthropology, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, emphasised the idea of “associated living” as envisioned by Dr. Ambedkar, stating, “Democracy is not a monologue; it is a dialogue where you listen even when you disagree.” He highlighted that democracy must be rooted in social justice, liberty, and dignity, and not merely in legal or procedural frameworks. Reflecting on caste and social inequality, he underlined that true democracy cannot survive if hierarchical divisions continue to shape everyday life. He stressed that liberty must extend beyond formal rights to lived experiences in everyday spaces such as homes, streets, and institutions.
Chief Guest, Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean Academic Affairs and Dean School of Media Studies, spoke about the continued relevance of Ambedkar’s thought in contemporary India. He noted that thinkers must be engaged critically, adding, “Thinkers are not prophets; they can be questioned.” “Even after the British left India in a fragile and impoverished condition, the nation stands strong today because of the robust Constitution laid down by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and other contributors,” he said. He remarked, “Dr. Ambedkar sacrificed and fought for the India we have today. He championed education because he believed in scientific temper that people must rise above superstition and regressive practices.”
Prof. Rasool urged participants to commit to justice and equality in everyday life. “Let us take a pledge to fight injustice at all levels, irrespective of the victim’s caste, colour, race, or religion,” he said, emphasising the need for moral courage and ethical responsibility.
On the occasion, participants along with organisers took an oath under the “Nash Mukt J&K Abhiyan” initiative, pledging to work collectively against the menace of drug abuse and to promote a healthy and responsible society. A short video was telecast on the “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan,” creating awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of collective responsibility in combating the menace.
Earlier Dr. Jehirul Islam, Dean Students Welfare, appreciated the participation of students and faculty and reiterated the university’s commitment to fostering inclusive and democratic values. Dr. Nookaraju, Assistant Professor, Department of Communication and Journalism, was present.
Dr. Altaf Hussain, Assistant Professor, Department of Urdu, Liaison Officer, SC, ST, PWD Cell, introduced the keynote speaker. Dr. John Babu Koyye, Sr. Assistant Professor, Department of Communication and Journalism, Liaison Officer, OBC Cell, moderated the session and reflected on the role of youth in advancing ethical citizenship and social justice. He remarked, “meaningful change requires consistent engagement and cannot be achieved in isolation or within a single day.”
Dr. Altaf Hussain proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes and certificates to the participants who had actively taken part in various events organised between April 9 and 10. The competitions included essay writing, elocution, and cultural events such as solo dance, group dance, solo song, and group song, with three positions awarded in each category.
Ms. Insha Mushtaq, research scholar at DCJ, was the rapporteur during the event.
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