Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): In a vibrant tribute to the architect of the Indian Constitution, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini flagged off the ‘Samta Marathon’ from Yavanika Park in Sector 5, Panchkula, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Dedicated to Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary, the marathon saw enthusiastic participation from thousands of youth and children who marched toward the Tau Devi Lal Sports Stadium in Sector 3, chanting slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram” to promote national unity.
Chief Minister Saini, who personally showered flower petals on the participants to boost their morale, described the run as a symbol of the state’s unwavering commitment to social justice, equality, and rights. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar’s life was an extraordinary saga of struggle and sacrifice for the marginalized sections of society. He noted that Babasaheb did not just provide a Constitution but a powerful ideology rooted in justice and fraternity, which the Samta Marathon aims to spread among the masses.
Reiterating the state government’s dedication to Ambedkar’s ideals, the Chief Minister highlighted various welfare schemes launched to ensure that development reaches the “last person in the queue.” He pointed out that the government is focusing on education, scholarships, and social security to bring weaker sections into the mainstream. Saini specifically exhorted the youth to embrace Ambedkar’s mantra of “Educate, Organize, and Agitate,” stating that a truly developed nation is only possible when every citizen has equal opportunities and dignity.
The event was attended by several high-ranking officials and dignitaries, including Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi, Haryana BJP President Mohan Lal Badoli, and Rajya Sabha MP Rekha Sharma. Local administration leaders, including DC Satpal Sharma and IG Pankaj Nain, were also present to witness the marathon, which served as a powerful reminder of the state’s goal to build an egalitarian society free from discrimination and injustice.
