New Delhi: Prime Minister Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, and other leaders, on Saturday, paid homage to the former Deputy Prime Minister of India, Babu Jagjivan Ram, on his birth anniversary, which is also observed as Samta Diwas across the country.

The day commemorates the life and contributions of the veteran freedom fighter, socialist icon, and champion of social justice.

Taking to the social media platform X, PM Modi expressed admiration for Jagjivan Ram’s tireless efforts in fighting for the rights of the underprivileged and his contributions to the nation’s progress.

In his post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Respectful tributes to former Deputy Prime Minister of the country Babu Jagjivan Ram on his birth anniversary. His lifelong struggle for the rights of the deprived and the oppressed will always remain a source of inspiration.”

In a video message shared on the same platform, the Prime Minister highlighted the immense legacy of Babu Jagjivan Ram.

“He dedicated his life to the betterment of the poor and spent many years in the service of the nation,” PM Modi said. He also recalled Jagjivan Ram’s significant role during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, stating, “Thakur Jagjivan Ram wanted two things, a strong India and a democratic India. When we strongly retaliated against Pakistan, Thakur Ji was the Defence Minister of India.”

The Prime Minister further added that Jagjivan Ram was the first Congress leader to raise his voice against the Emergency.

“During those difficult days, when people were getting arrested, he emerged as a voice of strength and encouraged people not to fear,” PM Modi said. He concluded his tribute by paying his respects to the leader on his birth anniversary.

Marking the occasion, LoP Rahul Gandhi, along with several senior Congress leaders, visited the Babu Jagjivan Ram memorial to offer tributes to the former Deputy Prime Minister.

Taking to X, LoP Gandhi posted, “Respectful tributes to Babu Jagjivan Ram ji on his birth anniversary. Babu ji dedicated his entire life for the rights of the deprived, the exploited and Dalits. He strengthened the democratic and constitutional values of the country by strengthening their rights and participation.”

“His thoughts and struggles will always inspire us,” he added.

Congress National President, Mallikarjun Kharge, also expressed his reverence on the occasion, stating on X, “On Samta Diwas, heartfelt tribute to the great freedom fighter, pioneer of social justice and former Deputy Prime Minister Babu Jagjivan Ram ji on his birth anniversary.”

Kharge further noted, “The great hero of equality, Babu ji fought selflessly for justice and for the uplift of the weak, oppressed and backward sections of society and made an unforgettable contribution towards strengthening parliamentary democracy.”

Former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, who is also Babu Jagjivan Ram’s daughter, paid homage and spoke to IANS about the relevance of Samta Diwas.

“Samta means everyone should be equal. There’s a lot of inequality and discrimination in this country. So, when we celebrate Samta Diwas, we send a message not just to the nation but to the entire world — that the feeling of discrimination among people must end,” she said.

Bihar Congress President Rajesh Kumar also emphasised Babu Jagjivan Ram’s enduring legacy and told IANS, “Babu Jagjivan Ram’s legacy lies in how he uplifted people from the marginalised sections of society. His role in the Samta Andolan (Equality Movement) has been truly pioneering.”

Babu Jagjivan Ram fondly remembered as ‘Babuji’, was one of India’s most influential Dalit leaders and a key figure in shaping post-Independence Indian politics.

Throughout his life, he advocated for the rights of the downtrodden and worked tirelessly to dismantle caste-based barriers, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Earlier in the day, Telangana Chief Minister K. Revanth Reddy also paid tribute to the legendary leader, acknowledging Jagjivan Ram’s unparalleled service to the nation.

The CM remarked, “Babuji was born in a poor family and rose to the highest position with his unwavering dedication.”

Babu Jagjivan Ram, widely known as Babuji, was one of India’s most prominent Dalit icons.

His work in championing the rights of the oppressed and his significant political roles, including as the Defence Minister during the 1971 India-Pakistan war and later as Deputy Prime Minister from 1977 to 1979, solidified his place in Indian history.

His legacy as a leader who fought for social justice and national unity continues to inspire generations.