Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 7 (ANI): On the death anniversary of BR Ambedkar, Samajwadi Party leader Abu Asim Azmi has said that Ambedkar played a crucial role in ensuring justice for both Dalits and Muslims during the time of Partition.

Speaking to reporters, Azmi said, 'When India and Pakistan were separated in 1947, Muslims were going to Pakistan... but Baba Saheb said no. Baba Saheb fought a battle. He did justice to both Dalits and Muslims.'

Azmi said Ambedkar's contributions continue to guide the nation and emphasised the importance of unity and constitutional values.

PM Modi also paid tributes to Baba Saheb BR Ambedkar on his Mahaparinirvan Diwas.

'The transformation taking place in India is not merely about possibilities. It is the real story of changing lives, evolving mindsets and a nation moving in a new direction. Today is also the Mahaparinirvan Diwas of Baba Saheb Dr B R Ambedkar, the architect of our Constitution. I offer my tributes to him on behalf of all Indians,' he said.

'Today we stand at a moment when one fourth of the twenty-first century has already passed. In these twenty five years, the world has witnessed many ups and downs. It has seen financial crises. It has faced a global pandemic. Each of these situations has challenged the global community in some form. Amid an atmosphere of uncertainty, our nation is emerging in a league of its own. India is moving ahead with deep self-confidence,' he added.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said, 'Dr. Ambedkar not only established democratic values in the Constitution of India but also laid the foundation for ensuring equal rights and justice for every section of society. He continuously fought against social discrimination and described education as the most effective medium for social upliftment.'

'Baba Saheb's teachings and his ideas will continue to inspire society forever. His unwavering commitment towards equality, justice and human rights will continue to illuminate our path,' he added.

The 70th Mahaparinirvan Diwas was commemorated by Dr Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) on behalf of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, at Prerna Sthal, Parliament House Campus, near the statue of Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar.

During the event, the Dr Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) also maintained a stall to assist with the storage of followers' belongings. At the same time, they paid their floral tribute to Babasaheb BR Ambedkar in a befitting manner with the confluence of Buddhist chants performed by 25 Buddhist monks.

The establishment of the Dr Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) aimed to propagate the ideals of Babasaheb Dr B.R. Ambedkar. The autonomous organisation was formed on March 24, 1992, and functions under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

The DAF was tasked with implementing programmes and initiatives to promote the vision and philosophy of Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar on a national scale. (ANI)