The Centre for the Study of Social Exclusion and Inclusive Policy (CSSEIP) at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) recently hosted the 4th Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Annual Memorial Lecture, a platform dedicated to exploring pressing societal issues through the lens of scholarship and discourse. This year, the lecture delved into the theme of "Renewing Liberal Democracy: Lessons from Ambedkar," resonating profoundly in today's tumultuous political landscape.
Professor Vidhu Verma, a distinguished scholar from the Centre for Political Studies at the School of Social Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), delivered a thought-provoking address. She eloquently navigated through the timeless wisdom of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a towering figure in Indian history and a visionary advocate for social justice.
Against the backdrop of contemporary challenges facing liberal democracies worldwide, Prof. Verma elucidated how Dr. Ambedkar's insights remain profoundly relevant. She highlighted Ambedkar's prescient analysis of the inherent flaws within liberal democracy, particularly in the context of rising neoliberalism. More than half a century ago, Ambedkar astutely recognized the limitations and inequalities inherent in democratic systems.
Prof. Verma's discourse also shed light on the unique challenges confronting liberal democracy in India, notably the pervasive issue of caste discrimination. Dr. Ambedkar, a fierce critic of caste-based inequalities, emphasized the imperative of addressing these deep-rooted societal injustices within the framework of democracy.
Furthermore, Prof. Verma underscored that despite India's seventy-five years of independence, Dr. Ambedkar's vision for an egalitarian society remains largely unrealized. She urged the audience not to lose sight of the fundamental values of liberal democracy and emphasized the ongoing journey towards achieving Ambedkar's vision of a just and inclusive society.
The lecture sparked a lively and engaging question-and-answer session, where students and scholars delved deeper into the nuances of Dr. Ambedkar's ideology and its implications for contemporary democracy. The event served as a catalyst for introspection and critical dialogue, inspiring attendees to reexamine their roles in advancing social justice and democratic ideals.
In his address following the lecture, Prof. Kumar Suresh, Director (Planning and Development) and Head of the Department of Educational Administration at the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration, reflected on the profound influence of Dr. Ambedkar's writings on his own worldview. He emphasized the continued relevance of studying Ambedkar's ideas in academic pursuits, underscoring their enduring significance in shaping inclusive societies.
Dr. Arvind Kumar delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks on behalf of the Centre, expressing gratitude to the speakers and participants for their valuable contributions to the discourse on democracy and social justice.
The event drew a diverse audience comprising students, scholars, and academics from JMI and other esteemed institutions, fostering an enriching intellectual exchange. Through insightful deliberations and impassioned dialogue, the 4th Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Annual Memorial Lecture reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Dr. Ambedkar's legacy in navigating the complexities of contemporary liberal democracy.
As societies grapple with evolving political landscapes and persistent social inequalities, the wisdom of visionaries like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar serves as a guiding beacon, inspiring collective efforts towards a more just and inclusive future.
