 Early Times Report
JAMMU, May 5: The Bharatiya Dalit Sahitya Akademy (BDSA) observed the 17th death anniversary of its Founder President, Babu Parmanand, with a solemn and dignified commemorative event held at the Akademy's headquarters in Roopnagar, Jammu.
The ceremony commenced with floral tributes being offered to both Babu Parmanand and Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, symbolizing the Akademy's steadfast commitment to the Ambedkarite movement and its core values of equality, justice, and social upliftment. The homage was followed by a soulful musical tribute presented by noted artist Shri B.D. Thappa, whose renditions highlighted the historic struggles and visionary leadership of Dalit icons.
A host of distinguished speakers graced the occasion, including Shri Hemraj Phounsa, Shri Desraj Bhardwaj, Shri Balbir Ramrattan, Shri Y.P. Kundal, and Shri R.L. Bharati. Shri Hemraj Phounsa threw light on Babu Parmanand's lifelong dedication to the empowerment of marginalized communities and his unparalleled contributions toward building a more equitable society. He underscored the importance of carrying forward his mission, particularly in today's socio-political climate.
The speakers expressed their appreciation for the current leadership of the BDSA, which they credited with revitalizing the institution and reaffirming its ideological foundations. Shri Balbir Ramrattan, Ex-Vice Chairperson SC, ST, BC Corporation Ltd. said that BDSA is an important organization in Jammu and Kashmir that is purely rooted in the philosophy of Babasaheb Ambedkar. Sh. Ruplal Bharati (Retd, IFS) emphasized that the true homage to Babasaheb lies in upholding the Constitution of India-drafted under his stewardship-and ensuring its implementation in both letter and spirit.
In his address, Shri Y.P. Kundal, former Minister, reflected on the profound influence of Babuji's ideals on his own political journey. He stressed the importance of transcending political affiliations to support and strengthen the Akademy. He also urged the community to place its trust in the capable leadership of Shri B.R. Kundal (IAS, Retd.), who currently serves as the Working President of BDSA. "The Akademy must become a beacon for intellectual and literary contributions from Dalit writers across the Union Territory," he appealed.
Shri Vijay Bhagat, General Secretary of BDSA and a close associate of the late Babuji, conducted the proceedings of the event with grace and reverence. The program culminated with a presidential address delivered by Shri B.R. Kundal (IAS, Retd.), who provided an overview of recent developments under his leadership. He shared that the BDSA has recently reactivated its library and seminar hall, both of which are now accessible to members and the public, encouraging intellectual and cultural engagement.
Shri Kundal emphasized the importance of outreach and inclusivity. "We are committed to expanding the Akademy's reach and rejuvenating its intellectual culture. Several outreach activities have already been undertaken, and more are in the pipeline," he noted. He also suggested practical measures to enhance the financial sustainability of the Akademy, including the enrollment of new members and increased community participation.
In a moment of shared grief, the gathering also paid heartfelt tributes to the victims of the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack. The speakers condemned the violence in the strongest terms and called upon the government to take swift and decisive action against the perpetrators.
The event witnessed the presence of several eminent personalities and long-time supporters of the Akademy. Among those in attendance were Shri Darshan Rana (President BSP), Shri Sewa Dass, Shri Nagarmal, Shri R.L. Bhagat, Shri Mohan Lal Thappa, Shri P.L. Bhushan, Shri Pawan Kundal, Prof. Samyal, Shri T.R. Azad, Shri Somnath Banal, Shri Amit Chalotra, and Shri Arvind Manyal, Shri Hansbans Lal, Shri Vijay Kumar Kundal, Shri Parshotam Lal, Shri Bihari Lal among others. |
