The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Wokha District Unit on Wednesday organised a district-level seminar at the BJP District Office, Wokha, as part of the Bharat Ratna Dr B.R. Ambedkar Samman Abhiyan. The event was graced by Yanthungo Patton, Deputy Chief Minister and BJP Legislature Party Leader, as the Guest Speaker.
In his keynote address, Patton paid tributes to Dr Ambedkar, describing him as a visionary jurist, economist, politician, and social reformer who dedicated his life to eradicating caste-based discrimination and uplifting the Dalit community.
Highlighting the political challenges faced by Dr Ambedkar, Patton remarked on his marginalisation during Congress-led governments, especially his exclusion from key decision-making bodies despite serving under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. He cited Ambedkar’s resignation from the Union Cabinet as a response to the neglect of Dalit issues and unmet promises by the Congress leadership.
Patton further underlined the recognition Ambedkar received under non-Congress regimes, noting that the Bharat Ratnawas conferred on him in 1990 under Prime Minister V.P. Singh, with BJP support. He also lauded the current BJP-led government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for initiatives such as the development of the five Panchteerth sites and the inauguration of Dr Ambedkar’s memorial in 2018, reinforcing the party’s commitment to preserving his legacy.
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During the programme, the Deputy Chief Minister presented a Bolero to Rhanbemo Odyuo, President of BJP Wokha Unit, encouraging him and other party workers (karyakartas) to strengthen grassroots leadership and enhance public service capabilities.
The event was chaired by James Tungoe, Vice President of BJP Wokha Unit and Councillor of Wokha Town Council. An opening prayer was offered by Khochobeni Odyuo, Secretary of the Unit, followed by a welcome address from Nongothung Kikon, Convenor of the District Ambedkar Jayanti Committee.
Additional remarks were shared by Bichano Ngullie, State Spokesperson of BJP Nagaland and member of the state-level Ambedkar Jayanti Committee. Rhanbemo Odyuo, President of BJP Wokha Unit, also delivered a brief address. A special musical performance was presented by Emily Murry, Media Secretary of BJYM, BJP Wokha Unit.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Bichamo Shitiri, Treasurer of the BJP Wokha Unit, and the rendition of the National Anthem.
