Tadepalli, July 6: YSRCP marked the death anniversary of former Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram with a solemn ceremony at its central office in Tadepalli, where party leaders paid heartfelt tributes by garlanding his portrait. Lauding his legacy as a freedom fighter, social reformer, and towering political leader, YSRCP leaders hailed Dr. Jagjivan Ram as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities, whose lifelong efforts to eradicate inequality remain an inspiration. They emphasized that YSRCP, under the leadership of Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, has consistently worked to realize Dr. Jagjivan Ram’s vision of an equitable society, prioritizing the upliftment of oppressed communities through inclusive governance. In sharp contrast, the leaders lambasted the Chandrababu Naidu-led coalition government for its derogatory attitude toward Dalits, accusing it of undermining their dignity and rights.
MLC Lella Appi Reddy, YSRCP Central Office In-Charge, underscored Y.S. Jagan’s commitment to Dr. Jagjivan Ram’s ideals, stating, “Y.S. Jagan has tirelessly worked to build the society Dr. Jagjivan Ram envisioned, ensuring justice and progress for the marginalized. In contrast, Chandrababu Naidu’s derogatory remarks, questioning whether anyone would want to be born as a Dalit, reveal his contempt for the oppressed. Such leaders lack the moral authority to even invoke Dr. Jagjivan Ram’s name.” Reddy called for a renewed push to bring back YSRCP’s governance to restore equality and dignity for all.
Former MLA and YSRCP SC Cell President TJR Sudhakar Babu condemned the Naidu government’s hostility toward Dalits, declaring, “Chandrababu’s comparison of a Dalit, Singaiah, to a dog is an unforgivable insult. The Dalit community will never forgive such a mindset. While Dr. Jagjivan Ram and leaders like Y.S. Jagan worked to empower Dalits, the current regime humiliates them daily.” He praised Y.S. Jagan’s tenure for fostering Dalit pride and ensuring access to education and opportunities.
Former Minister and Bapatla District President Merugu Nagarjuna accused the Naidu government of trampling the rights of marginalized communities, stating, “Chandrababu’s administration is pushing Dalits back into dark times by scrapping welfare schemes and violating their rights. His shameful comparison of a Dalit to a dog reflects his disdain for the oppressed. We must unite to end this demonic rule.” Nagarjuna highlighted Y.S. Jagan’s governance as a model of inclusive development, free from caste or class discrimination.
Former MP Nandigam Suresh emphasized YSRCP’s alignment with Dr. Jagjivan Ram’s vision, noting, “From Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy to Y.S. Jagan, YSRCP has worked to uplift marginalized communities politically, socially, and economically. Today, under Naidu’s rule, Dalits and weaker sections face daily atrocities, reminiscent of the Emergency era.” He reaffirmed Y.S. Jagan’s role as a steadfast advocate for the oppressed.
The event saw participation from key YSRCP figures, including SC Cell Working President Kommuri Kanaka Rao, State Grievance Cell President Ankareddy Naga Narayana Murthy, Tadepalli Constituency In-Charge Vemareddy, and State Spokesperson Velpula Ravi Kumar, among others. The leaders reiterated their commitment to Dr. Jagjivan Ram’s ideals and vowed to continue their fight for justice and equality.