Gurugram (National Times): Extending greetings on Vaisakhi, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini paid heartfelt tribute to Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, describing him as a visionary social reformer, thinker, and philosopher who challenged oppressive norms and championed the causes of education, equality, and women’s empowerment during colonial rule.
He praised Phule’s work to end child marriage, promote widow remarriage, and fight untouchability, noting that he and his wife Savitribai Phule—India’s first female teacher—together founded the country’s first school for girls in Pune.
“Mahatma Phule believed that education is the cornerstone of societal progress. His ideals remain deeply relevant today,” the Chief Minister said.
He also commemorated the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, paying homage to those martyred in 1919 when British forces opened fire on peaceful demonstrators in Amritsar.
A Tribute to the Saini Community
CM Saini lauded the Saini community for its historic contributions in agriculture, horticulture, and public service, and credited its enduring values of labor, sacrifice, and service. He emphasized that figures like Mahatma Phule and Savitribai Phule are a source of pride for the community and have left an indelible mark on India’s social landscape.
He concluded by invoking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas”, noting that the scholarship initiative aligns with this inclusive national philosophy.
