Dalit organisations offer floral tributes to Ambedkar in Hubballi

Hubballi: On Jan 1, commemorating the Bhima Koregaon Dalit Hero Victory Day of 1818 and the new year, various Dalit organisations and the Samata Sena Karnataka offered floral tributes at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s statue near the city’s main post office, honouring the heroes of the Veer Bhima Koregaon battle.

During the event, Samata Sena’s Gurunath Ullikashi paid respects to former PM Manmohan Singh and extended greetings for the historic struggle of Jan 1, 1818, Dalit Veer Vijayotsav Day, and senior Dalit leader Pitambrappa Bilar’s birth anniversary. The celebration was subdued due to the former PM’ passing.

Ullikashi said that before Independence, a remarkable victory was achieved when 500 soldiers of the Mahar Regiment triumphed over approximately 27,000 upper caste Peshwas, fighting alongside the British forces for equality and dignity. This historic battle represents the community’s initial struggle for equality.

Ambedkar brought this significant historical event to light, countering attempts to suppress it. Throughout his life, he visited the Bhima Koregaon (Pune) Veer Stupa annually on Jan 1 to honour the valiant soldiers, emphasising the importance of sharing this history widely, he added.

Activists of various Dalit organisations and the Samata Sena Karnataka were present on the occasion.

Courtesy : TOI

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