The 142nd birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj was celebrated under the banner of the Mula Nibasi Chhatra O Yuva Sammukhya at the Jayadev Bhawan here on Sunday.
A book Sanrakshan Birodhi: Desadrohi, written by Abhiram Mallick was released on the occasion.
Garlanding the photos of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj and Baba Saheb Dr Ambedkar, the speakers discussed on the workers who were victimised of casteism and prejudices. They had been deprived of social rights and forced to lead animal’s life. To bring equality in the society, reservation facility was introduced after Independence, they added.
Attending as chief guest, former Advocate General Jayant Das said reservation is required to bring equality in the Indian society. Reservation is a factor of development, he observed.
Though the reservation process has been a controversial topic and some people are alleging that reservation affects merit but merit can never be affected by reservation, Das added.
Former MP Radhakant Nayak, who chaired the meet, said reservation is required to avoid inequality, slavery and discrimination in the society.
Reservation brings equality in opportunities, said Professor of Sabitribai Phule University, Pune Haribhau Narke. It brings equality in education, employment and politics also. Reservation would ensure social justice as an affirmative action, Narke said.
Sidhhrth Bharve and Prof Bijay Bahidar spoke, among others. Bani Prasad Mali gave welcome address and introduced the guests. Dr Ramesh Chandra Behera gave vote of thanks.