From Vision to Practice: Ambedkar’s Philosophy and Dalit Rights in Punjab

Abstract

The philosophical legacy of B.R. Ambedkar continues to shape contemporary discourses on social justice, equality, and human rights, particularly within the Dalit community. In Punjab, where caste-based hierarchies intersect with religious and socio-political identities, Ambedkar’s vision has played a pivotal role in reimagining Dalit rights from mere constitutional provisions to lived realities. This paper explores how Ambedkar’s philosophy—centered on liberty, equality, fraternity, and annihilation of caste—has been adopted and adapted in Punjab’s unique socio-cultural context. It examines the translation of Ambedkar’s vision into grassroots movements, the assertion of Dalit identity through cultural practices, and the role of political mobilization in advancing social and economic empowerment. Further, it highlights the challenges of persistent caste discrimination, intra-community divides, and the limitations of state interventions in realizing Ambedkarite ideals. By focusing on Punjab, the study emphasizes how Ambedkar’s thought transcends regional boundaries, becoming a unifying framework for marginalized communities seeking dignity and justice. The discussion underscores that the transformation from Ambedkar’s vision to practice in Punjab is both inspiring and incomplete, reflecting the continuing struggle for substantive equality. Thus, this work situates Ambedkar’s philosophy not only as a guiding principle but also as an active instrument in the Dalit rights movement of Punjab.