Chandigarh: Leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday paid tributes to Bahujan icon Kanshi Ram Ji on his birth anniversary, recalling his lifelong struggle for social justice and empowerment of marginalized communities while reiterating their commitment to advancing his vision of equality and political participation.

Addressing a gathering in Ropar, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said Kanshi Ram Ji played a historic role in awakening the Bahujan society and spreading the ideology of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar across the country. He recalled his association with the late leader during his student days and said Kanshi Ram Ji devoted his entire life to mobilising marginalized communities and promoting social transformation.

Cheema said that at a time when Ambedkar’s ideas had not reached many parts of the country, Kanshi Ram Ji travelled extensively, often visiting villages on foot or bicycle, to spread awareness and unite the Bahujan community under a common vision of equality and justice.

“Kanshi Ram Ji dedicated his life to ensuring that the voices of the marginalized were heard in the political system,” Cheema said, adding that the leader’s message of political participation continues to inspire many in public life.

Highlighting the initiatives of the Punjab government, Cheema said the administration led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann was working to translate the ideals of Babasaheb Ambedkar into governance. He pointed to measures aimed at expanding opportunities for underprivileged sections, including steps to ensure representation in the office of the Advocate General in the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Cheema also underlined the government’s focus on strengthening public education. Reforms in government schools, he said, were enabling students from ordinary families to compete in national-level examinations such as JEE and NEET and pursue professional careers.

“The objective is to empower children from common households so they can aspire to and achieve top positions in the country,” he said.

The minister also referred to welfare measures undertaken by the state government, including free electricity, improvements in public healthcare and financial support schemes aimed at assisting women and economically weaker families.

In Jalandhar, AAP leader Pawan Kumar Tinu also paid tribute to Kanshi Ram Ji, describing him as a fearless leader who dedicated his life to organising the Bahujan community and promoting social awareness.

“Kanshi Ram Ji’s life and struggle continue to inspire the fight for social equality and political consciousness,” Tinu said, adding that the AAP government remains committed to ensuring equal opportunities and dignity for every section of society in line with the vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar and Kanshi Ram Ji.