Biography of Manyavar Sahib Kanshi Ram

Biography of Manyavar Sahib Kanshi Ram

Introduction

In this article, we will delve into the remarkable life and contributions of Manyavar Sahib Kanshi Ram, a great Indian political leader and social reformer. Born on March 15, 1934, in Khawas Pur village, Punjab, India, Kanshi Ram played a pivotal role in the upliftment of marginalized societies, fighting for social justice and equal rights. His journey from humble beginnings to the heights of political influence remains an inspiring story of resilience, determination, and dedication.

Kanshi Ram

Kansi Ram was born on March 15, 1934, in KhawasPur village, Rupnagar (present-day Ropar district) of Punjab, during British rule. He obtained his BSc degree from Government College Ropar in 1956. He was later appointed as a Class I officer at an ammunition factory in Pune. But they faced discrimination on caste lines. It is said that Kanshi Ram started fighting for Dalits after a Dalit employee asked for leave on the occasion of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth anniversary.

Kanshi Ram's struggle

For Dalits, Kanshi Ram was not a thinker and intellectual like Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar but they were greatly influenced by him. Kanshi Ram played an important role in bringing about a major change in Indian politics and society. Kanshi Ram worked to bring Ambedkar's Constitution to the ground. Kanshi Ram was suspended from his job for suppressing his voice. On this, Kanshi Ram had beaten up the officer who suspended him.

Bsp was founded

He founded a social organisation called Dalit Shoshit Samaj Sangharsh Samiti, which also had political influence. After this, Kanshi Ram ji founded the Bahujan Samaj Party on April 14, 1984, on the occasion of Babasaheb Ambedkar's birthday for the upliftment of Dalits.

Kanshi Ram's political career

Foundation of the Bahujan Samaj Party

With the establishment of the BSP, Kanshi Ram became a full-time political social worker. Kanshi Ram started his political career with the Chhattisgarh elections. Kanshi Ram contested for the first time from Janjgir Champa here. His party left its mark on Uttar Pradesh politics in a very short span of time. Kanshi Ram propagated the ideology that one should fight for rights, pleading not to get rights.

Focus on Social Justice

Kanshi Ram's political ideology was rooted in the principles of social justice and equality. He sought to challenge the existing caste-based hierarchy in Indian society and advocated for the rights and representation of the Bahujan communities in all spheres of life.

Electoral Endeavors:

The BSP, under Kanshi Ram's leadership, contested various state and national elections. While the party faced initial struggles, it gradually gained ground by focusing on building a strong grassroots network and mobilizing the marginalized communities.

Coalition Governments:

The BSP's breakthrough in electoral politics came in 1989 when the party won 9 seats in the Lok Sabha. Subsequently, the party formed alliances and played a crucial role in supporting coalition governments at both state and national levels.

Mentorship of Mayawati:

Kanshi Ram identified the leadership potential in Mayawati, who emerged as a prominent face of the BSP. He mentored her and played a vital role in shaping her political career.

Empowerment of Dalits and Marginalized:

Throughout his political career, Kanshi Ram focused on empowering the Dalits and other marginalized communities by encouraging them to take an active role in politics and governance. He believed that political power was crucial for achieving social and economic progress for these communities.

Championing Bahujan Identity:

Kanshi Ram sought to build a strong sense of Bahujan identity and consciousness among the marginalized communities. He encouraged them to assert their rights and demand a fair share of resources and opportunities.

Health Decline and Retirement:

Due to health issues, Kanshi Ram retired from active politics in 2001. However, he continued to be an inspiration and guiding force for the BSP and its leaders.

Kanshi Ram and Mayawati

Later, Kanshi Ram Ji met Mayawati. He became Mayawati's guide. He groomed Mayawati as the BSP's political head. However, from 2003, Kanshi Ram reduced his activism in politics and Kanshi Ram died in 2006. Kanshi Ram was a grassroots worker, a thinker who dreamt of Dalit upliftment.

Some key time events in his life:

1934: Birth - Kanshi Ram was born on March 15, 1934, in KhawasPur village, Rupnagar district, Punjab, India.

1957: Indian Defence Services - After completing his education, Kanshi Ram joined the Indian Defence Services, where he served as a military engineer until 1964.

1971: Working for Dalit Empowerment - Following his retirement, Kanshi Ram focused on social and political activism, working towards the upliftment of Dalits (formerly known as untouchables) and other oppressed communities.

1981: Founding of BSP - On April 14, 1984, Kanshi Ram founded the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in collaboration with other like-minded leaders. The party aimed to provide a political platform for the marginalised sections of society.

1984: First Electoral Foray - In the 1984 general elections, the BSP contested for the first time, but it didn't achieve significant success.

1989: Electoral Success - In the 1989 general elections, the BSP gained success by winning 9 seats in the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament), marking a significant breakthrough for the party.

1995: Mayawati Becomes Chief Minister - In Uttar Pradesh's state elections, the BSP formed a coalition government, with Kanshi Ram's support, and Mayawati became the Chief Minister of the state.

2001: Kanshi Ram's Retirement - Due to health issues, Kanshi Ram retired from active politics, and the party leadership was handed over to Mayawati.

2006: Demise - Kanshi Ram passed away on October 9, 2006, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent social and political leader who fought for the rights and representation of Dalits and marginalized communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Manyavar Sahib Kanshi Ram's life journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and compassion. From a small village in Punjab to the national political stage, he fought unwaveringly for the rights of the marginalized. Kanshi Ram's legacy continues to inspire generations of leaders to work towards a more egalitarian society, free from the shackles of caste-based discrimination.

FAQs

What was Kanshi Ram's vision for the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)?

Kanshi Ram's vision for the BSP was to create a political platform that represented the interests of marginalized communities and challenged the dominance of traditional upper-caste parties.

What does the term "Bahujan" signify in Kanshi Ram's ideology?

The term "Bahujan" coined by Kanshi Ram refers to Dalits, Adivasis(ST), OBCs (Other Backward Classes), and religious minorities, collectively representing the oppressed and marginalized communities.

How did Kanshi Ram's partnership with Mayawati impact politics?

Kanshi Ram's partnership with Mayawati created a powerful political force that led to significant electoral successes and implementing pro-poor policies in Uttar Pradesh.

What were the core principles of Kanshi Ram's ideology?

Kanshi Ram's ideology emphasized social justice, self-respect, self-reliance, and collective struggle to achieve political and social equality.

What is the lasting legacy of Manyavar Sahib Kanshi Ram?

Manyavar Sahib Kanshi Ram's legacy lies in inspiring generations of leaders to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.