Congress leaders recall Phule’s legacy, emphasise social justice on birth anniversary

Senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday paid tributes to noted social reformer Jyotiba Phule on his birth anniversary, highlighting his lifelong fight against caste discrimination and his enduring contribution to social equality.

In a message marking the occasion, Rahul Gandhi said Phule devoted his entire life to safeguarding the rights and dignity of the marginalized. “His struggle against discrimination and inequality showed the nation the path of equality and justice,” he said, adding that Phule’s ideals would “always continue to inspire us to move forward in the direction of social justice.”

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Rahul Gandhi also paid floral tributes at Prerna Sthal in the Parliament House Complex to commemorate the reformer’s 200th birth anniversary. According to party sources, several leaders and workers participated in the event, reflecting on Phule’s lasting influence on India’s social reform movements.

Echoing similar sentiments, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra described Phule as a “pioneer of social revolution” and underscored his transformative efforts in expanding access to education.

“Mahatma Phule made historic efforts for the education of women and the underprivileged, and showed society the path of justice and equality,” she said, adding that his ideas would “always continue to guide us all.”

A 19th-century thinker and activist, Jyotiba Phule is widely regarded as one of India’s foremost champions of social reform.

Along with his wife, Savitribai Phule, he played a key role in promoting education for women and oppressed communities at a time of deep social resistance. His work laid the foundation for movements aimed at dismantling caste hierarchies and advancing the cause of social justice.

The tributes come amid a continued political focus on social equity and inclusion, with leaders across the spectrum invoking Phule’s legacy to reinforce their commitment to egalitarian values.