New Delhi, March 28: In a significant decision, the Central Government has officially declared April 14, the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, as a national public holiday. The announcement was made on Friday, March 28, by Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing Ambedkar’s contributions to Indian society and the Constitution.
Government’s Statement on Ambedkar Jayanti Holiday
Sharing the decision, Shekhawat wrote, “The architect of the Indian Constitution and a pioneer of social equality, our revered Baba Saheb, Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Ji, will now have a public holiday on his birth anniversary.” He further added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to honor Ambedkar’s legacy reflects the sentiments of the nation.
Who Was Dr. BR Ambedkar?
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. He played a crucial role in drafting the Indian Constitution and championed the rights of Dalits and marginalized communities. His relentless efforts towards social justice, education, and equality have left a lasting impact on India’s legal and political framework.
Political Controversy Over Ambedkar’s Legacy
The decision to observe Ambedkar Jayanti as a public holiday comes amid ongoing political debates between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress over Ambedkar’s legacy.
Delhi CM’s Office Controversy
In February 2025, a controversy erupted in the Delhi Assembly after Chief Minister Rekha Gupta installed cameras in her office. The move was aimed at refuting allegations made by AAP leader and former Delhi CM Atishi, who claimed that portraits of BR Ambedkar and Bhagat Singh had been removed. This incident led to a heated exchange between BJP and AAP leaders.
Amit Shah vs. Congress on Ambedkar’s Legacy
In December 2024, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Congress party clashed over Ambedkar’s legacy. Shah accused Congress of neglecting Ambedkar’s contributions, while Congress alleged that the BJP and RSS harbored animosity toward Ambedkar’s ideals. Following this, Shah clarified that his speech in the Rajya Sabha had been misrepresented and called on Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge to stop demanding his resignation.
Significance of Ambedkar Jayanti as a Public Holiday
The declaration of April 14 as a national holiday marks a significant recognition of Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions. It ensures that his ideals of social justice, equality, and democracy continue to be honored and remembered across India.
With this announcement, government employees, students, and private sector workers will now be able to officially observe Ambedkar Jayanti nationwide, further reinforcing his lasting impact on Indian society.
