AAP Government Marks Ambedkar Jayanti with SC Welfare Reforms and AG Office Reservation
- AAP Government Marks Ambedkar Jayanti with SC Welfare Reforms and AG Office Reservation
- Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Leads Tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at District Event in Jalandhar
- Jalandhar, April 14 – The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government commemorated the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar with a district-level celebration marked by powerful tributes and the announcement of groundbreaking welfare initiatives for Scheduled Caste (SC) communities.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, presiding over the function at DAVIET, Jalandhar, outlined a series of transformative steps taken by the state government to realize the dream of Baba Saheb and strengthen social equity across the state.
First-Ever SC Reservation in AG Office, Six SC Ministers in Cabinet
In a historic move, the Punjab government has introduced SC reservation in the Advocate General’s office, with 58 posts reserved for SC/ST candidates, reflecting a strong commitment to representation in the legal system.
Minister Cheema emphasized that for the first time in Punjab’s history, six SC ministers have been appointed to the cabinet, setting a precedent for inclusive governance and leadership.
“These steps are not symbolic; they are structural. Representation matters, and this is what Baba Saheb Ambedkar fought for,” Cheema said.
Seamless SC Scholarship Disbursement and Loan Waivers
The Finance Minister also praised the hassle-free disbursement of the SC Post Matric Scholarship Scheme, which has empowered thousands of students to pursue higher education without financial constraints.
He pointed out that unlike previous regimes, the current administration has ensured transparency and timely fund transfers, restoring faith among marginalized families.
Further strengthening social support, Cheema announced that the state government has waived loans issued by the SC Corporation before March 31, 2020, providing relief to families unable to repay due to economic hardship.
Ambedkar’s Ideals at the Core of Governance
In his address, Cheema urged the youth to become torchbearers of Ambedkar’s legacy, emphasizing that walking the path of education, equality, and justice is the truest tribute to the architect of the Indian Constitution.
“Dr. Ambedkar gave India the power of the vote and the voice of the Constitution. His vision continues to inspire inclusive progress,” the Minister said.
Highlighting Dr. Ambedkar’s global stature, Cheema also mentioned his role in conceptualizing institutions like the Reserve Bank of India, underlining the far-reaching impact of his vision.
Institutional Reforms: Portraits of Icons Replace Chief Ministers
As a symbolic yet significant reform, the Punjab government has mandated the installation of portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in all government offices across the state, replacing images of serving Chief Ministers.
This move, Cheema said, is aimed at instilling values of sacrifice, justice, and patriotism in public institutions.
Boosting Opportunities Through Employment Drives
The Minister also called on students and job seekers to actively engage in the state’s mega employment drive, noting that over 50,000 government jobs have already been filled, with more opportunities forthcoming.
“Our government is committed to not just symbolic representation but providing real opportunities for growth,” he added.
Ashirwad Scheme, Coffee Table Book, and Beneficiary Testimonials
On the occasion, beneficiaries of the Ashirwad, Shagun, and Post Matric Scholarship schemes received official allotment letters. Several shared emotional testimonials about how these programs changed their lives.
The event also featured the release of a coffee table book showcasing AAP government initiatives for SC/ST and minority communities.
The event concluded with a memento presentation to Minister Cheema by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, as a token of appreciation for his participation.
Dignitaries in Attendance
Notable attendees included:
- MLAs Balkar Singh and Inderjit Kaur Mann
- Mayor Vineet Dhir
- Commissioner of Police Ms. Dhanpreet Kaur
- Chairman Punjab Minorities Commission Abdul Bahri Salmani
- District Planning Committee Chairman Amritpal Singh
- Tourism Advisor Deepak Bali, and many others from civic bodies and academia.