Published in the Greater Jammu Daily on 11-6-2025 SADGURU KABIR JI (Respectfully Remembering the Great Saint on His 627th Prakash Divas falling on 11th June, 2025) Er. H.R. Phonsa (Cont. +91-9419134060) Revered Sadguru Kabir Sahib, a Dalit - Revolutionary saint was one of the founding fathers of Bhagati Movement (1375-1700) movement in Northern India. Even the Protestant Reformation of 16th-century religious movement as led to the establishment of Protestantism, a new branch of Christianity distinct from Roman Catholicism. The Bhagti (भक्ति) Movement Saints Confronted with the priestly classes and advised their followers to do away with needless old-time worshiping techniques which included outer body decorations, observing celibacy, dogmas, caste system of pure and polluted human’s, reading religious books, rituals, bathing in designated rivers besides observing superstitious ways to worship designated animal, birds, plants as well as following other illogical methods devised and projected as means of salvation by priestly classes. Shimpi, Shinbaa (weaver, calico printer) caste Saint Guru Namdev (1270-1350) is said to be the first saint in the Bhagati Movement alias Sant mat or devotional transformation of medieval Hinduism in the North India. Nirguna Bhagti as preached by Bhagti Movement saints is Bhagti or worship approach to achieve the ultimate God realization i.e. merging with Braham, as the sole objective of human life. It is based on the non-qualified (Nirguna-निर्गुण) formless Supreme Brham (Universal Creator), who is non personnel, all-pervading ineffable, unutterable or indescribable Reality. The supreme name cannot be spoken with human tongue, or written in any worldly language alphabets. Sant Mat is based on the reality of merging the re-absorbable Jiva or Atma (जीवा , आत्मा) of the finite soul into the infinite ineffable sacred Reality. This Supreme Reality can only be realized within human body, under guidance of a God realized soul termed Guru, Master or Guide. Kabir Ji said “Guru Manas Kar Jantey, Tey Nar Kahiye Andh. Maha Dukhi Sansar Main, Age Jam Ke Bandh (Kabir Granthawali- Page 3) Meaning: if anybody underestimates the authority of a realized Guru, they are blind or ignorant. Such persons suffer heavily in this world and after death and face curse of Yamraj (Death god or Kal). Kabir was a supreme Mystic master so his authority is indescribable and unchallengeable. He is every household lore of every Indian,besides many foreign lands. The true Bhagati is sharing with God, yoked to God and devotion to God. The Bhagti movement is devotional religious movement. Majority of Bhagti Movement saints or religious guides and Bhagats came from all walks of life and religions. But majority of them were from Dalit castes from Hindu low caste persons including Shudras and Ati Shudras. These God realised souls rejected the theory of polarity of gods as well as the Vaishnava doctrine of Avatars of supreme Lord. Kabir said “Sahib Ka Ghar Santan Mihin, Sahib Sant Kush Anter Nahi”. (Kabir Shabdavali Part -2/37) meaning “Supreme Lord” is present in Saint’s body frames. There is no difference between God and Saints i.e. they are one and the same. Saints say as both water and water current are water, similarly Creator ,guru and soul are having no difference only difference of name (पृष्ठ: संत काव्य.pdf/१६२). Even Socrates, an Athenian moral philosopher, cautioned “man know thyself”. As per legend Kabir is said to have born in 1398 and passed away in 1518. He became disciple of Ramanand (1366-1467) in 1455. As during old those days Shudras were denied the right to educate, so they could not write Dalit Saints life stories and their teaching, so till date controversies are raised about their birth/death related dates are raised by different writers. I give here generally most agreed dates. As per legend Kabir is said to have born in 1398 and passed away in 1518. His foster parents were Neema and Neeru, who were Muslim Weavers. Kabir was born in Banaras alias Varanasi and e became disciple of Ramanand (1366-1467) in 1455, whose one verse is in Adi Granth Panna 1195. Kabir himself has quoted to have confessed as“Oshi Mat Meri Jat Julaha, Har Ka Nam Liyo Main Laha” (AG524) My caste is lowest Jolaha (Weaver). But I have got benefitted by worshiping Hari (God Almighty). Even Guru Amardas, 3rd Sikh Guru said “Nama Shinbaa Kabir Julaha, Pure Gur Te Mat Pai”( AG Panna 830). Kabir is said to be married with Mai Loi and the couple had one son Kamala and a daughter named Kamali. Kabir earned his livelihood from profession of weaving. Kabir ji has confessed his being illiterate as: Mas-Kagaj Shuyo Nahi,Kalam Gahi Nahi Hath. Meaning:- I have not touched ever ink and paper, the medium of writing, still his philosophy, teachings are very large in number as detailed by Karine and W.H. McLeod in their book” The Saints”. This includes 226( Padas) distributed in 16 Ragas. With 237 or 239 Salokas in the Guru Granth Sahib. Saint Peepa Sahib (1408-1448) said in praise of Kabir Sahib. “ Jo Kal Mainj Kabir Manj Na Hote, To Ley Ved aur Kalyug Milkar,Bhagat Rasatal Dete”. ( SGGS Panna 695) Meaning:- If in the Kalyuga there had not been Kabir, both religious scriptures and Kalyug ( Iron age) would have thrown souls in to hell. Dadu Sahib a prominent Kabir disciple said “Dadu naam Kabir ki, jae koi leve ott , unko kabahu laage nahin, Kaal vajr ki chot” . Meaning:- who so ever recited Kabir’s name( Kabir Manter),shall not be punished by Kal( Negative power). Kabir describes his teaching’s partibility and based on his self-experience. He said “Tou Kahta Kagaj Ki Lekhi, Main Kahta Ankhan Dekhi”. Meaning worldly philosophers say what they have read from books but Kabir says out of his practical knowledge. Kabir along with other legends of Bhagti movement e.g. Guru Baba Nanak, Guru Ravidas, Sant Raja Pipa, Sant Meera bai, Sain ji etc. worked together for decades, so had many similarities in their teachings, despite the fact thy belonging to different castes. The uniqueness of essence, theme and methods and means in their teaching smashed dogmatic cage to free human soul shaped parrot. Kabir ji vividly described the true state of our society (Samaj) and strongly opposed its illogical ways, where needed. He guided the masses to follow right ways of God realisation besides common society welfare. He was more vocal, fearless saint unlike many of contemporary saints, who were mild in their ways of teaching. But all were firm to their resolves, as they first self-verified reality of their preachings. Ayodhya saint Paltu Saheb said: Logg Kahin Kagaj Ki lekhi,Sant Kahin Akhan Dekhi, Meaning Saint said as they observe, where as other worldly scholar say, whatever they read from literature. All Bhagti Movement saints sturdily opposed observance of caste system. Kabir said: .-“Jat Nahi Jagdish Ki, Hari-Jan Ki Kaha Hoi. Jat Pat Ke Kich Main Dub Maro Mat Koi”. ( Kabir Granthawali-359) Meaning; If the Creator “Jagdish” has no caste, how a person can have it. Let no one get drown in the caste mud and dirt differences. Kabir opposed reading not following religious book dictates, as also animal “Ajamedh, Gomedh Yag,Ashawmedh,Narmedh, Kahey Kabir Adharam Ko Dharam Bataven Ved ( Kabir Shabdawali page 353) ( Meaning:-Slaughtering animals like goats, cows, horses and men killing and terming them as religious sacrifices along with religious books including Vedas preach against true religious norms). Kabir peaching is for one’s mind control not by observing fruitless actions. “ Bambi Kutey Bamrey, Sanp Na Mara Jaye; Murakh Bambi Na Dasey sarap Sabhan Ko Kaye”. ( Sakhi Sangrah-127) Meaning: “O” foolish why beat snake barrow and not snake .It is the snake not barrow which is poisonous. By saying so Kabir explains that it is your mind power, creator of all sinful ideas, which needs to be brought under control not the body under control of the mind by external means. While opposing different means of worship Kabir Said “Alla Ek Masit Basat Hai,Avar Mulak Kis Kera, Hindu Murat Ram Nivasi, Duh Mahi Tat Na Hera”.( AG Panna 1349) Meaning: Muslim say their Alla Khuda (God) resides in Mosque and Hindu Says his God resides in an idol, then Kabir questions, who reside elsewhere. While discarding Murti Puja (idol Worship) Kabir said:- “Pakhan Ghar Ke Murti Kini De Ke Shati Paun, Je Eh Murti Sachi Hai To Gharan Harey Khau”. ( AG-Panna 479). Meaning: A sculptor from a stone piece sculptures an idol with cutting and beating while sitting on its chest wearing shoes. If the idol has life and feels pains of hammering it should first kill and eat up the sculptor. So idol is life less stone and to worship it nothing but useless. Kabir opposed all rituals related with death and afterward ,: “ Joo Maritik Ko Chandan Charave,Us Se Kahu Kavan Phal Pave.” Meaning by making offering sandalwood paste to a lifeless body or stone ( idol), what one is going to get, as idol being dead cannot grant any boon. Pitirpuja (Deification of ancestors) : The innocent peoples were made to shed offering to preists on the death of a person, then at monthly and yearly intervals for salvation of the departed soul. This has remained since ages a great source of income of the pundits, that is why Brahmins do not let this system die. Bhagati movement saints one and all decried it with full force. Guru Ghasidas said “I see pitarpuja as act of irrationality”. Kabir Ji saiyth “Jivat Pittar Na Manney Kou, Muye Siradh Karahi,Pittar Bhi Bapurey Kahu Kaya Pavhi,Kouya,Kookar Khahi” Alms or begging:- The majority of priestly class live on alms in one way or the other proclaiming that the Jajmans (gift giver to priests for performing religious ceremonies) shall be granted salvation, if they gave offering to preists in cash and kind. Kabir advised to avoid it for the god of the priestly class by saing “Marr Jayon,Mangoon Nahi, Apne Tan Ke Kaj, Parmarath Ke Karney, Mujey Na Away Lajj” Meaning:- I shall prefer death than resorting to begging for my livelihood. But begging for community cause, I do not feel hesitant. Tirath Asnan (Bathing in manmade holi waters sources) : Bhagti Saints decried Tirathasnan bathing as well. It was not only wastage of time and money, but it enhances ego. Kabir Ji said “ Kayya Manjis Koun Gunna, Jyon Ghat Bhitar Malna. Layoki Athsath Tirath Nayi Kayorapan Tyon na Jayi”(Adi Granth Panna 656). Meaning that bathing has no spiritual use .It is like cleaning an empty earthen pot. Even if, a bitter guard (कड़वा करेला- लौकी ) is washed in sixty eight holi water of designated rivers/ tanks (Tiraths for Hindus),it does not lose its bitterness. The Maan or mind cannot be controlled by external means. Celibacy, naked wondering in forests: -Kabir Sahib refutes such acts as fruitless, leading no where in spiritual progress. He said “Nagan Firt je Payiaye Yog, Van Ka Mirig Mukat Sab Hog. Moond Mudaye Je Sidhi Pai, Mukat Bherr Na Gaya Kai. Bindu Rakh Jo Tariye Bhai, Khusere Kyon Na Param Gat Pai” (Sant Sad Guru Kabir- page 324) Meaning: If by wondering naked in woods, grants salvation then why the stag(बारहसिंगा) is devoid of it . If by face, head shaving is a means to salvation, then why a sheep do not get it, as a sheep is shaved twice annually. Kabir ji lived in Kanshi, whole his life. Although Kanshi death was said to be sure granter of Sawarg, but shed his mortal body frame at Maghar on Magh Shukla Ekadashi in January 1518. It was to prove that all places created by Supreme Lord are equally pure. Kabir Ji said, “ Manhon Kathor Marey Banaras narak Na Vanshiya Jayi, Har Ka Sant Marey Haranbey Tian Sagli Sain Tarayi”. Meaning: A hard hearted person devoid of love for humanity, even if dies at Banaras cannot escape punished in hell, but a saint who worship Hari (Lord) even if he dies at Haramba i.e. Maghar, shall get eternal peace to his chain of relations. False Sadhus (Hermits): All those who wear different dyed and styled clothes but devoid of real worshiping techniques are not saints or Sadhus. Kabir declared “Vey Nar Jogi Kar Janey, Khoje App Sarira. Tinko Mukti Ka Sansa Nahi Kahit Julah Kabira ( KGV Page 246) Meaning: The Jogi (A person absorbed in Surat-Shabad Yoga) is one who searches Lord with in his body. They should not worry for salvation as salvation is assured to such persons proclaims Kabir, the weaver. Kabir Sahib’s ways were revolutionary and democratic, teaching of love, his arguments scientific, courage of an iron man and carried will of a perfect Sidh Purash. He was a Darvesh. He pulled religion out of cage of superstitions, dogmas, rituals, religious hate so he preached for universal brotherhood by devotion or Bhagti, to Lord of all Lords. He preached family life and earning for one’s living by fair means. The best devotion to Kabir will be by faithfully following his preaching. Tributes on 627th Prakash Divas of Sadguru Kabir Ji. Jai Kabir, Dhan Kabir

Amar Shaheed Bhagat Amar Nath (27th Sep.1918 to- 1st june1970). Although India won freedom in August, 1947 by forcing out the British supremacy. But the real freedom from the rigid religious fundamentalists & autocratic mind set forces remained to be won for the marginalised sections of Indians. Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar classified Hindu untouchables in India as “Slaves to the British Slaves”. As per his version the slaves to the British slaves got freedom in 1947 & their slaves are still striving to gain it in full. Even after adopting our Constitution the Hindu Religious texts did not change even an iota of their sanctions against their own religion brethren classified as Shudras now clubbed together as Scheduled Castes & Scheduled tribes & Other Bachward Classes to match with facilities on offing in free India through its Constitution. Their rights as per the Constitution of Free India adopted in January 1950, are being systematically denied even now, as is apparent from the numerous court cases which remaing heldup pending decisions besides departmental seniority, promotion cases of reserved category employees including daily media reports of atrocities and denial of bare minimum human rights to the common masses belonging to else while untouchables, both touchable and untouchable. Their conditions in all spheres of life was worst before Independence but desired changes particularly in bonds of fraternity and dignity in their lives is still illusive even after eight decades. For this deficit in, fraternity growing attitude of higher castes with Dalits, their desired economic, education, their employment (gained and lost). Deferring and diversion of lacs of reserved quota employment post over the years in being viewed as deliberate denial of rights of the Dalits, the Dalits are forced to resort to strikes, dharnas and political struggle to gain their legitimate rights as per the cannons of law, is being viewed and supressed as revolts against established governments. Many ill-informed, but interested to cause confusion often say the Dalit have not contributed any thing in Indian freedom struggle. For their information it is said with authority that the sacrifices of Dalit-Shudras for Indian freedom were no less. As per a report in Dalit Dastavej Hindi book among those who got martydom in Freedom struggle from (1857-1947) 68.3% were Shudras. But their sacrifices were deliberately not recorded in history books by biased Indian writer, who were mostly from the upper castes. Although the Dalits were punished for their fighting for the Indian kings and knight’s side, in 1857 Sepoy mutiny i.e. the first war of Indian Independence. Dalit martyr woman of “Estri Vehni” commander Jhalkaribai Kori and her brave shaheed husband Puran Kori played no less important roll in the war of Jhansi than Rani of Jhansi. Many Dalit tribes to which warring Dalit brave hearted soldiers belonged and had joined freedom struggle were declared as Criminal Tribes including their descendants, in the GOI Criminal Tribes Act of 1870’s. Even against this death blow classification order of Dalit tribes, not a single unified protest was held by caste Hindus, who never failed to clain these Dalit castes as their religious brothers. Although the reservation in services and Elected Houses for the S/C’s, S/T ’s on the basis of population percentage of these castes, was inked in 1932 Poona Pact but affected in services from 1944 as per Act of 1935.It was duly reinforced with the enactment of the Indian Constitution. But,it remained elusive in J&K state till 1970, putting all blames on Article 370. But unfortunately, even with revoking of Art.370 from 5 August 2019 from J&K, nothing better has been achieved in the reservation sector for the reserved category people. So, in the J&K state like other states and UT’s, protests against atrocities against SCs, STs, OBCs along with the caste hate acts of individuals and collective have been raised at different times by these caste leaders and associations. A public meeting was organized in village Rattian Miran Sahib, Tehsil R.S Pura, Jammu, where over 1,00,000 public representatives are reported to have participated. Religious leaders of Sikhs, Muslim, Christians and Hindus were invited to explain them, agony of hate, suffering from untouchability practice with Harijans by the upper caste Hindus. On getting very favourable response from all other religious leaders, for the suffering Harijans, if the Harijans join their religions. But the Hindu representative attending conference, asked for 90 days’ time in replying Harijan’s demands. On this the conference proceedings came to halt, with request to all delegates, that they will be again called after 90 days, if reply of the Hindu leaders was not favourable. Complete story can be read here on page------- in Essay of (Mahasha Nahar Singh). But the Hindu leaders asked for 90 days’ time to respond on demands of Harijans. A deputation of Megh Samaj met the Glaxy Commission in 1931 to explain their poverty ridden conditions with request for redressal of their miseries. The Commission was formed by Maharaja Hari Singh to study the reasons of unrest prevailing in the state and also to give suitable recommendation for the needed rectification including formation of Praja Sabha, for greater public participations in the government administration. In line with the recommendations Jagat Ram Aryan was nominated to Praja Sabha in 1932. He put forth demands of welfare of his people, which were supported by some good-hearted Hindu leaders also. These efforts succeeded in getting some relief under Maharaj’s Hari Singh’s orders for Harijans viz. opening of entry to temples, water well and tanks, public places, admission of their children in schools with grant of Scholar ships to school going Harijan children. But no respite was given in services to these slaves to the British Slaves. Babu Milkhi Ram and many others Harijans also joined the team of Dalit leaders. For the first time the Dalits in J&K organized fast unto death thrice, first at Chhan Arorian, Tehsil Hira Nagar in 1955, later in Parade Ground & third time in Karan Park Jammu in 1957, against excesses being perpetuated on them by upper caste peoples and government under their control. The main demands were to stop dispossession of SC farmers from their allotted agriculture land , provision for reservation in services, scholarships to students pursuing education courses and provisions for free education up to post graduation. A large number of Dalits were participating in these fasts and processions. It is said 165 pounds of Dalit Blood was lost for the noble cause of Dali emancipation in J&K State during fasts undertaken. People from all Harijan communities were participating in the peaceful protests for their rights granted under free India’s constitution. Due to such unity efforts, protests and agitations, including fast unto death in1955- 57 era Dalits succeeded to win Assembly Election in 1957 under the banner of Harijan Mandal. Amar Shaheed Bhagat Amar Nath blew the bugle for the finishing struggle in May 1970 which created a strong wave in J&K forcing the J&K State to issue circular instructions to provide Reservation in services in 1969 and 1970. This struggle continued for 63 years in one form or the other & finally J&K Legislature passed law in 2004 giving legal teeth to the Rules of Reservation in services by issuing Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004 Dated19/23 March, 2004. The struggle continues to get promotions as per roster approved by the government through protests, court cases for denied promotions etc. The son of the soil, Shaheed Bhagat Amarnath was born on Friday the 27th Sep.1918 at village Champa near Batote Tehsil Ramban Distt Udhampur (Now Ramban) in a Bhagat or Megh family now one of the of Scheduled Castes. His parents were respected Shri Moti Ram and Shrimati Janki Devi After completing his school education up to Middle standard; he joined service in NAC Batote and later in the health department. He got married to Shrimati Shanti Devi at a young age. Sadly, Shrimati Shanti Devi passed away on 15th March,2025, at a ripe age. Bhagat Amarnath family lived at Champa, Batote. Bhagat ji resigned from the Govt. job and joined social service. He joined Congress party and was elected as Congress Block President and later was made the Secretary. To full fill his dreams of uplifting and betterment of the depressed classes educationally, socially, economically, he came to Jammu from his native place with an explicit motive, and to work to secure justice for Dalit Samaj of J&K in particular and country in general. He worked in Bhartiya Depressed Classes league, an all-India Origination founded in 1935 by Babu Jagjivan Ram, union minister and later Deputy Prime Minister. The organization was as unit of INC and had spread its wings all over India for the welfare of the depressed classes’ peoples. Bhagat Amar Nath was made President of this Organization in J&K. Its HQ was established in two Municipal Corporation shops on Jogi gate Road, Shahidi Chowk Jammu. Its General Secretary was Choudhary Guran Ditta Mal an MLA and Vice Chairman of S/C’s Welfare Board. All other Dalit leaders including M.L.A’ s , Ministers of J&K were members. A Weekly Urdu News Paper named “PASMANDGI” was started from Jammu to raise a forcefully voice against denial of the just rights of depressed Classes peoples in J&K State. The write ups in the “Pasmandgi” paper helped in uniting the Dalit masses. An All India one day convention of the Bhartiya Depressed Classes league was held in 1968 in Parade ground Jammu which was presided over by Babu Jagjivan Ram and was attended by over 20,000 peoples. Among others Bhagat Amarnath, Pandit Trilochan Dutt addressed the gathering. Bhagat Amaranth spoke forcefully pleading for granting due rights to the Depressed Classes persons in recruitments and promotions in services, grant of scholarships to the deserving students up to all levels of education including university level, stopping illegal dislocation of small farmers from their rightful possession and many more problems faced by common people. Bhagat ji created a close contact with Jammu based Dalit leaders i.e. Babu Parmanand, Babu Milkhi Ram, Bhagat chajju Ram, Pashori lal and Mahasa Nar Singh, Jagat Ram Aryan (Kishtwar) and others. Despite all this the government was not acceding to the just demands of the Dalit leaders. Amarnath ji had gained close association & friendship with Ayub Khan, then Health Minister of J&K State. Bhagat Amaranth was earlier Kabir Panthi and later was initiated as follower of Radha Soami Satsang Beas. He was a complete vegetarian and abstained from any type of intoxicants. Despite issue of circular order vide G.O No 252-GD of 1969 dated 3-2-1969 and Govt. Notification No 37 GR of 1970 dated 28th April 1970 for providing reservation in services for the SC’s, ST’s and OBC’s the state Govt. was still reluctant to implement the reservation rules in services in letter and spirit. Shaheed Bhagat Amar Nath took it very seriously and a comprehensive note containing detailed demands, pointing out lapses and ill-conceived intention of the state Govt. officials and officers and caste rigid politician, was submitted to the State government. When the State government failed to give positive respond, he intensified his nonstop agitation in the entire Jammu province by leading many processions, demonstrations, public meetings for the expeditious redressal of core issue including reservation. An ultimatum with deadline was given to state Govt. to take remedial measures soon otherwise he shall go for fast unto death. When convinced that the state government was not taking his threats seriously, he under took fast unto death. Shaheed Bhagat Amarnath voluntarily offered himself for the supreme sacrifice and resolved to observe silence and subsequently sat on fast unto death on 21-05-1970 in Karan Park in front of civil secretariat gate. A day before taking the extreme step of stating fast unto death by Bhagat Ji, this writer met him in Karan Park and discussed some of his apprehensions that peoples were yet not prepared fully for such an extreme step and requested him to work in the field for some more time to prepare the masses for such a step, later, if need be . While addressing my apprehensions he quoted lines from Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s poem “Challain ge mere naal dushman bi mere, eh bakhari a gal ke muskra ke chalangey, jaddyono merre Arthi utha ke chalaney gey” meaning after my death, when his dead body shall be carried for cremation, even his adversaries shall accompany it, may be with joy in their hearts”. His health condition deteriorated so he was shifted to SMGS Hospital Jammu. But despite efforts by prominent physician of that time Dr. Manhas the condition continued to worsen. Bhagat sahib refused to take any medical treatment. Unfortunately committed son of the soil, Bhagat Amaranth achieved martyrdom on the 1st June 1970. His supreme sacrifice for the cause of the Scheduled Castes reservation and other problems forced the government to make consorted efforts to implement rules for reservation in services for the SC’s, ST’s and OBC’s. Martyrdom of Bhagat Amar Nath in 1970 proved final blow to hurdles in providing Reservation in Services in J&K State. Rules (ACT) to give the Reservation on sound legal footing is services for SCs, STc, OBCs was issued vide Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004 Dated19/23 March, 2004 for which contributions of Dalit masses and leaders was force to convince the State government to heed to the just demands of the depressed classes people. Our peoples made concerted efforts both in side Assemblies and outside including life sacrifice by Amar Shaheed Bhagat Amarnath Ji. List of Demands submitted and circulated through Public wall paper writings Translation from (Urdu) 1. Cabinet should have adequate representation of SCs as Cabinet Ministers. 2.Reservation to Scheduled Castes is fixed to only 8% whereas their population is more than 6 Lacs. Their reservation should be enhanced up to 20%. 3. Adequate representation should be given to SCs in each state, province, district recruitment boards 4.Representation to SCs should be given while selecting PSCs members. 5. No representation is given to Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes in Legislative Councils, Legislative Assembly, Parliament. Thus, due representation should be given to them. 6.Some of the Scheduled Castes were allotted land but that were being driven out of their land via illegal means due to they were becoming susceptible to hand to mouth existence. This should be stopped immediately. 7.Free land, including Shamlat land belonging to government should be immediately allotted to scheduled castes and backward classes. 8.Thousands of educated scheduled unemployed. Govt jobs should be given to them immediately. 9. Scheduled castes and backward class employees should be given Reservation in promotion's benefits. 10.There should be representation of scheduled castes in KAS and IAS. 11.Houses to homeless scheduled castes and backward classes be given in Municipal Town Areas, Notified Area Committee areas and with property ownership rights, along with financial assistance from govt to build houses. 12 Labour laws formulated by Central government to be immediately implemented in J&K. 13. Financial support to Scheduled caste and backward class entrepreneurs via easy loans and credit benefits. 14. Slum dwelling Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes to be rehabilitated in permanent colonies with property ownership rights. 15. Separate Degree Colleges for Scheduled caste students with all the hostel facilities. 16. Graduate and Post Graduate students should be given free coaching for competing in exams like IAS, and preparation for getting job at National and International levels along with skill development courses. 17. Crash course programmes for matriculate scheduled castes to trained them entrepreneurships and, self-employment. Amar Sheed Amar Nath’s name shall go in the History of Martyrs for the cause of Rights of Dalits in India. Bhagat Ji’s daughter Smt. Chanchala Bhagat lives in Rajinder Nagra Ban Talab Jammu and is engaged in social work. References:- 1. Bhagat Amarnath’s personal details received from Bhagat Amarnath’s daughter Smt. Chanchala Bhagat 2. Many details are known to the writer as he had association with the National Hero Bhagat Amarnath Ji during his stay at Jammu? This writer used to contribute articles in the “ Pasmandgi”. Paper on life of Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s life and work यद्यपि भारत ने अगस्त 1947 में ब्रिटिश वर्चस्व को समाप्त करके स्वतंत्रता प्राप्त की थी। लेकिन भारतीयों के हाशिए पर पड़े वर्गों को कट्टर धार्मिक कट्टरपंथियों और निरंकुश मानसिकता वाली ताकतों से वास्तविक स्वतंत्रता प्राप्त करना अभी भी बाकी है। बाबा साहब डॉ. अंबेडकर ने भारत में हिंदू अछूतों को "ब्रिटिश गुलामों के गुलाम" के रूप में वर्गीकृत किया। उनके संस्करण के अनुसार ब्रिटिश गुलामों के गुलामों को 1947 में स्वतंत्रता मिली और उनके गुलाम अभी भी इसे पूरी तरह से हासिल करने के लिए संघर्ष कर रहे हैं। हिंदू धार्मिक ग्रंथों ने अपने ही धर्म के भाइयों के खिलाफ अपने प्रतिबंधों में एक रत्ती भी बदलाव नहीं किया, जिन्हें अब शूद्रों के रूप में वर्गीकृत किया गया है, ताकि स्वतंत्र भारत में संविधान के माध्यम से मिलने वाली सुविधाओं के साथ मिलान किया जा सके। जनवरी 1950 में अपनाए गए स्वतंत्र भारत के संविधान के अनुसार उनके अधिकारों को अब भी व्यवस्थित रूप से नकारा जा रहा है, जैसा कि विभागीय वरिष्ठता, आरक्षित श्रेणी के कर्मचारियों के पदोन्नति मामलों सहित कई अदालती मामलों से स्पष्ट है, जिनमें अत्याचारों और अन्य अछूतों से संबंधित आम जनता को न्यूनतम मानवाधिकारों से वंचित करने की दैनिक मीडिया रिपोर्टें शामिल हैं। जीवन के सभी क्षेत्रों में उनकी स्थिति स्वतंत्रता से पहले सबसे खराब थी, लेकिन उनके जीवन में भाईचारे और सम्मान के बंधन में वांछित परिवर्तन आठ दशकों के बाद भी अभी भी भ्रामक है। दलितों के साथ भाईचारे के मुक्त प्रसार के लिए सवर्ण हिंदुओं के कठोर रवैये में निरंतर कमी चिंता का विषय है। दलितों के साथ उनके वांछित भाईचारे की भावना की कमी, उनके आर्थिक, शिक्षा, रोजगार और सशक्तिकरण की प्रक्रिया को नुकसान पहुंचाती है। पिछले कुछ वर्षों में आरक्षित कोटे की नौकरियों में लाखों पदों को स्थगित करना और उनका दुरुपयोग करना दलितों के अधिकारों का जानबूझकर हनन माना जाता है। यह दलितों को कानून के अनुसार अपने वैध अधिकारों को प्राप्त करने के लिए हड़ताल, धरने और राजनीतिक संघर्ष का सहारा लेने के लिए मजबूर करता है। दलितों द्वारा अपने ऊपर हो रहे अत्याचारों का विरोध करने के लिए किए गए ऐसे कार्यों को स्थापित सरकारों के खिलाफ विद्रोह के रूप में देखा और दबाया जा रहा है। कई अज्ञानी, लेकिन भ्रम पैदा करने में रुचि रखने वाले लोग अक्सर कहते हैं कि दलितों ने भारतीय स्वतंत्रता संग्राम में कोई योगदान नहीं दिया है। उनकी जानकारी के लिए यह बात अधिकारपूर्वक कही जाती है कि भारतीय स्वतंत्रता संग्राम में दलित-शूद्रों का बलिदान भी कम नहीं था। दलित दस्तवेज हिंदी पुस्तक की एक रिपोर्ट के अनुसार स्वतंत्रता संग्राम (1857-1947) में शहीद होने वालों में 68.3% शूद्र थे। लेकिन पक्षपाती भारतीय लेखकों, जो अधिकतर उच्च जातियों से थे, ने जानबूझकर उनके बलिदानों को इतिहास की पुस्तकों में दर्ज नहीं किया। हालाँकि दलितों को भारतीय राजाओं और शूरवीरों के पक्ष में लड़ने के लिए 1857 के सिपाही विद्रोह यानी भारतीय स्वतंत्रता के पहले युद्ध में दंडित किया गया था। “एस्ट्री वेहनी” कमांडर की दलित शहीद महिला झलकारीबाई कोरी और उनके बहादुर शहीद पति पूरन कोरी ने झांसी के युद्ध में झांसी की रानी से कम महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका नहीं निभाई थी। कई दलित जनजातियाँ, जिनके युद्धरत दलित बहादुर सैनिक थे और जिन्होंने स्वतंत्रता संग्राम में भाग लिया था, को 1870 के भारत सरकार के आपराधिक जनजाति अधिनियम में उनके वंशजों सहित आपराधिक जनजाति घोषित किया गया था। दलित जनजातियों के इस घातक वर्गीकरण आदेश के खिलाफ भी, सवर्ण हिंदुओं द्वारा एक भी एकीकृत विरोध नहीं किया गया, जो इन दलित जातियों को अपने धार्मिक भाई के रूप में घोषित करने में कभी विफल नहीं हुए। यद्यपि इन जातियों की जनसंख्या प्रतिशत के आधार पर एस/सी, एस/टी के लिए सेवाओं और निर्वाचित सदनों में आरक्षण 1932 के पूना समझौते में किया गया था, लेकिन 1935 के अधिनियम के अनुसार 1944 से सेवाओं में इसे लागू किया गया। इसे भारतीय संविधान के अधिनियम के साथ विधिवत रूप से सुदृढ़ किया गया। लेकिन, यह 1970 तक जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य में मायावी बना रहा, जिसके कारण सारा दोष अनुच्छेद 370 पर मढ़ा गया। लेकिन दुर्भाग्य से 5 अगस्त 2019 से जम्मू-कश्मीर से अनुच्छेद 370 को निरस्त करने के बाद भी आरक्षित श्रेणी के लोगों के लिए आरक्षण क्षेत्र में कुछ भी बेहतर हासिल नहीं हुआ है। इसलिए, अन्य राज्यों और केंद्र शासित प्रदेशों की तरह जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य में भी एससी, एसटी, ओबीसी के खिलाफ अत्याचारों के साथ-साथ व्यक्तिगत और सामूहिक जातिगत घृणा कृत्यों के खिलाफ इन जाति के नेताओं और संघों द्वारा अलग-अलग समय पर विरोध प्रदर्शन किए गए हैं। जम्मू के आर.एस. पुरा तहसील के रत्तियां मीरां साहिब गाँव में एक सार्वजनिक बैठक आयोजित की गई, जहाँ 1,00,000 से अधिक जनप्रतिनिधियों के भाग लेने की खबर है। सिखों, मुस्लिम, ईसाइयों और हिंदुओं के धार्मिक नेताओं को उच्च जाति के हिंदुओं द्वारा हरिजनों के साथ की जाने वाली छुआछूत की प्रथा से होने वाली घृणा की पीड़ा को समझाने के लिए आमंत्रित किया गया था। अन्य सभी धार्मिक नेताओं की ओर से बहुत अनुकूल प्रतिक्रिया मिलने पर, हरिजनों को हुई पीड़ा के लिए यह प्रावधान किया गया कि यदि हरिजन उनके धर्म में शामिल हो जाएं तो उन्हें मुआवजा दिया जाएगा। पूरी कहानी यहाँ (महाशय नाहर सिंह) के निबंध में पृष्ठ------- पर पढ़ी जा सकती है। मेघ समाज के एक प्रतिनिधिमंडल ने 1931 में ग्लैक्सी आयोग से मुलाकात की और अपनी गरीबी से ग्रस्त स्थिति के बारे में बताया तथा अपने दुखों के निवारण का अनुरोध किया। महाराजा हरि सिंह ने राज्य में व्याप्त अशांति के कारणों का अध्ययन करने तथा प्रजा सभा के गठन सहित आवश्यक सुधार के लिए उपयुक्त सिफारिशें देने के लिए आयोग का गठन किया था ताकि सरकारी प्रशासन में अधिक से अधिक जनता की भागीदारी हो सके। सिफारिशों के अनुरूप जगत राम आर्यन को 1932 में प्रजा सभा में मनोनीत किया गया। उन्होंने अपने लोगों के कल्याण की मांगें रखीं, जिनका कुछ नेकदिल हिंदू नेताओं ने भी समर्थन किया। इन प्रयासों से महाराज हरि सिंह के आदेशों के तहत हरिजनों को कुछ राहत मिली जैसे मंदिरों, पानी के कुओं और तालाबों, सार्वजनिक स्थानों पर प्रवेश खोलना, उनके बच्चों को स्कूलों में दाखिला दिलाना तथा स्कूल जाने वाले हरिजन बच्चों को छात्रवृत्ति देना। लेकिन ब्रिटिश गुलामों के इन गुलामों को सरकारी सेवाओं में कोई राहत नहीं दी गई। बाबू मिलखी राम और कई अन्य हरिजन भी दलित नेताओं की टीम में शामिल हो गए। पहली बार जम्मू-कश्मीर में दलितों ने तीन बार आमरण अनशन किया, पहला 1955 में छन्न अरोड़ियां, तहसील हीरा नगर में, बाद में परेड ग्राउंड में और तीसरी बार 1957 में करण पार्क जम्मू में, उच्च जाति के लोगों और उनके अधीन सरकारों द्वारा उन पर किए जा रहे ज्यादतियों के खिलाफ। मुख्य मांगें थीं अनुसूचित जाति के किसानों को उनकी आवंटित कृषि भूमि से बेदखल करना बंद करना, सेवाओं में आरक्षण का प्रावधान करना, शिक्षा पाठ्यक्रमों में भाग लेने वाले छात्रों को छात्रवृत्ति देना और स्नातकोत्तर तक मुफ्त शिक्षा का प्रावधान करना। बड़ी संख्या में दलित इन अनशनों और जुलूसों में भाग ले रहे थे। ऐसा कहा जाता है कि जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य में दलित मुक्ति के महान उद्देश्य के लिए किए गए अनशन के दौरान 165 पाउंड दलित रक्त बहाया गया था। सभी हरिजन समुदायों के लोग स्वतंत्र भारत के संविधान के तहत दिए गए अपने अधिकारों के लिए शांतिपूर्ण विरोध प्रदर्शन में भाग ले रहे थे। ऐसे एकता प्रयासों, विरोध प्रदर्शनों और आंदोलनों, जिनमें 1955-57 का आमरण अनशन भी शामिल था, के कारण दलितों को हरिजन मंडल के बैनर तले विधानसभा 1957 चुनाव जीतने में सफलता प्राप्त की। अमर शहीद भगत अमर नाथ ने मई 1970 में समापन संघर्ष का बिगुल फूंका, जिसने जम्मू-कश्मीर में एक मजबूत लहर पैदा की और जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य को 1969 और 1970 में सेवाओं में आरक्षण प्रदान करने के निर्देश जारी करने के लिए मजबूर किया। यह संघर्ष एक या दूसरे रूप में 63 वर्षों तक जारी रहा और अंततः जम्मू-कश्मीर विधानसभा ने 2004 में कानून पारित किया, जिसमें जम्मू और कश्मीर आरक्षण अधिनियम, 2004 दिनांक 19/23 मार्च, 2004 को जारी करके सेवाओं में आरक्षण के नियमों को कानूनी ताकत दी गई। विरोध प्रदर्शनों, अस्वीकृत पदोन्नति के लिए अदालती मामलों आदि के माध्यम से सरकार द्वारा अनुमोदित रोस्टर के अनुसार पदोन्नति पाने के लिए संघर्ष जारी है। धरती के बेटे, शहीद भगत अमरनाथ का जन्म शुक्रवार 27 सितंबर 1918 को बटोटे तहसील रामबन जिला उधमपुर (अब रामबन) उनके माता-पिता आदरणीय श्री मोती राम और श्रीमती जानकी देवी थे। मिडिल तक की स्कूली शिक्षा पूरी करने के बाद वे एनएसी बटोटे और उसके बाद स्वास्थ्य विभाग में सेवा में शामिल हो गए। कम उम्र में ही उनका विवाह श्रीमती शांति देवी से हो गया। दुख की बात है कि श्रीमती शांति देवी का निधन 15 मार्च, 2025 को कम उम्र में हो गया। भगत अमरनाथ का परिवार चंपा, बटोटे में रहता था। भगत जी ने सरकारी नौकरी से त्यागपत्र दे दिया और समाज सेवा में लग गए। वे कांग्रेस पार्टी में शामिल हो गए और कांग्रेस ब्लॉक अध्यक्ष चुने गए और बाद में सचिव बनाए गए। दलित वर्गों के शैक्षणिक, सामाजिक, आर्थिक उत्थान और बेहतरी के अपने सपनों को पूरा करने के लिए, वे एक स्पष्ट उद्देश्य के साथ अपने मूल स्थान से जम्मू आए और विशेष रूप से जम्मू-कश्मीर और सामान्य रूप से देश के दलित समाज के लिए न्याय हासिल करने के लिए काम किया। उन्होंने भारतीय दलित वर्ग लीग में काम किया, जो 1935 में केंद्रीय मंत्री और बाद में उप प्रधान मंत्री बाबू जगजीवन राम द्वारा स्थापित एक अखिल भारतीय संगठन था। संगठन कांग्रेस की एक इकाई के रूप में था और दलित वर्गों के लोगों के कल्याण के लिए पूरे भारत में अपने पंख फैलाए थे। भगत अमर नाथ को जम्मू-कश्मीर में इस संगठन का अध्यक्ष बनाया गया था। इसका मुख्यालय जोगी गेट रोड, शहीदी चौक जम्मू में दो नगर निगम की दुकानों में स्थापित किया गया था। जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य में दलित वर्ग के लोगों के न्यायोचित अधिकारों के हनन के खिलाफ जोरदार आवाज उठाने के लिए जम्मू से “पसमांदगी” नामक साप्ताहिक उर्दू समाचार पत्र शुरू किया गया। “पसमांदगी” अखबार में छपी रचनाओं ने दलित जनता को एकजुट करने में मदद की। 1968 में परेड ग्राउंड जम्मू में भारतीय दलित लीग का अखिल भारतीय एक दिवसीय अधिवेशन हुआ जिसकी अध्यक्षता बाबू जगजीवन राम ने की तथा इसमें 20,000 से अधिक लोगों ने भाग लिया। अन्य लोगों के अलावा भगत अमरनाथ, पंडित त्रिलोचन दत्त ने सभा को संबोधित किया। भगत अमरनाथ ने नौकरियों में भर्ती व पदोन्नति में दलित वर्ग के लोगों को उचित अधिकार दिए जाने, विश्वविद्यालय स्तर सहित शिक्षा के सभी स्तरों तक योग्य छात्रों को छात्रवृत्ति दिए जाने, छोटे किसानों को उनके उचित कब्जे से अवैध रूप से बेदखल किए जाने को रोकने तथा आम लोगों के समक्ष आने वाली कई अन्य समस्याओं के बारे में जोरदार ढंग से बात की। भगत जी ने जम्मू स्थित दलित नेताओं अर्थात् बाबू परमानंद, बाबू मिलखी राम, भगत छज्जू राम, पशोरी लाल तथा महासा नर सिंह, जगत राम आर्यन (किश्तवाड़) व अन्य के साथ घनिष्ठ संपर्क स्थापित किया। इतना सब होने के बावजूद सरकार दलित नेताओं की उचित मांगों को स्वीकार नहीं कर रही थी। अमरनाथ जी ने जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य के तत्कालीन स्वास्थ्य मंत्री अयूब खान के साथ घनिष्ठ संबंध व मित्रता स्थापित कर ली थी। भगत अमरनाथ पहले कबीर पंथी थे और बाद में राधा स्वामी सत्संग ब्यास के अनुयायी बन गए। वे पूर्णतः शाकाहारी थे और किसी भी प्रकार के नशे से दूर एससी, एसटी और ओबीसी के लिए सेवाओं में आरक्षण प्रदान करने के लिए जीओ संख्या 252-जीडी 1969 दिनांक 3-2-1969 और सरकारी अधिसूचना संख्या 37 जीआर 1970 दिनांक 28 अप्रैल 1970 के जारी होने के बावजूद राज्य सरकार अभी भी सेवाओं में आरक्षण नियमों को अक्षरशः लागू करने में अनिच्छुक थी। शहीद भगत अमर नाथ ने इसे बहुत गंभीरता से लिया और राज्य सरकार के अधिकारियों, कर्मचारियों और जातिवादी राजनेताओं की खामियों और गलत इरादों की ओर इशारा करते हुए विस्तृत मांगों वाला एक व्यापक नोट राज्य सरकार को सौंपा। जब राज्य सरकार सकारात्मक प्रतिक्रिया देने में विफल रही, तो उन्होंने आरक्षण सहित मुख्य मुद्दे के शीघ्र निवारण के लिए कई जुलूस, प्रदर्शन, सार्वजनिक बैठकों का नेतृत्व करके पूरे जम्मू प्रांत में अपना लगातार आंदोलन तेज कर दिया। जब उन्हें विश्वास हो गया कि राज्य सरकार उनकी धमकियों को गंभीरता से नहीं ले रही है तो उन्होंने आमरण अनशन शुरू कर दिया । शहीद भगत अमरनाथ ने स्वेच्छा से सर्वोच्च बलिदान के लिए खुद को पेश किया और मौन व्रत रखने का संकल्प लिया और इसके बाद 21-05-1970 को नागरिक सचिवालय गेट के सामने करण पार्क में आमरण अनशन पर बैठ गए। भगत जी द्वारा आमरण अनशन का चरम कदम उठाने से एक दिन पहले, इस लेखक ने उनसे करण पार्क में मुलाकात की और उनकी कुछ आशंकाओं पर चर्चा की कि लोग अभी भी इस तरह के चरम कदम के लिए पूरी तरह से तैयार नहीं हैं और उनसे अनुरोध किया कि वे कुछ और समय के लिए इस क्षेत्र में काम करें ताकि लोगों को इस तरह के कदम के लिए तैयार किया जा सके, बाद में, यदि आवश्यकता हो। मेरी आशंकाओं को संबोधित करते हुए उन्होंने शहीद भगत सिंह की कविता की पंक्तियाँ उद्धृत कीं “चलें गे मेरे नाल दुश्मन बी मेरे, ए बखारी ए गल के मुस्करा के चलेंगे, जद्दोनो मेरे अर्थी उठा के चलने गे” जिसका अर्थ है मेरी मृत्यु के बाद, जब उनके शव को अंतिम संस्कार के लिए ले जाया जाएगा, तो उनके विरोधी भी उसके साथ होंगे, उनके दिल में खुशी हो सकती है"। उनकी स्वास्थ्य स्थिति बिगड़ती गई, इसलिए उन्हें एसएमजीएस अस्पताल जम्मू में स्थानांतरित कर दिया गया। लेकिन उस समय के प्रमुख चिकित्सक डॉ. मन्हास के प्रयासों के बावजूद हालत बिगड़ती रही। भगत साहब ने कोई भी चिकित्सा उपचार लेने से इनकार कर दिया। दुर्भाग्य से धरती के प्रतिबद्ध पुत्र, भगत अमरनाथ ने 1 जून 1970 को शहादत प्राप्त की। अनुसूचित जातियों के आरक्षण और अन्य समस्याओं के लिए उनके सर्वोच्च बलिदान ने सरकार को एससी, एसटी और ओबीसी के लिए सेवाओं में आरक्षण के नियमों को लागू करने के लिए समन्वित प्रयास करने के लिए मजबूर किया। 1970 में भगत अमर नाथ की शहादत जम्मू-कश्मीर राज्य में सेवाओं में आरक्षण प्रदान करने की बाधाओं के लिए अंतिम झटका साबित हुई। एससी, एसटीसी, ओबीसी के लिए सेवाओं में ठोस कानूनी आधार पर आरक्षण देने के लिए नियम (अधिनियम) 19/23 मार्च, 2004 को जम्मू और कश्मीर आरक्षण अधिनियम, 2004 हमारे लोगों ने वि सार्वजनिक दीवार पत्र लेखन के माध्यम से प्रस्तुत और प्रसारित मांगों की सूची(उर्दू) से अनुवाद) 1. कैबिनेट में कैबिनेट मंत्रियों के रूप में अनुसूचित जातियों का पर्याप्त प्रतिनिधित्व होना चाहिए। 2. अनुसूचित जातियों के लिए आरक्षण केवल 8% निर्धारित है जबकि उनकी जनसंख्या 6 लाख से अधिक है। उनके आरक्षण को 20% तक बढ़ाया जाना चाहिए। 3. प्रत्येक राज्य, प्रांत, जिला भर्ती बोर्ड में अनुसूचित जातियों को पर्याप्त प्रतिनिधित्व दिया जाना चाहिए 4. पी एस सी सदस्यों का चयन करते समय अनुसूचित जातियों को प्रतिनिधित्व दिया जाना चाहिए। 5. विधान परिषदों, विधान सभाओं, संसद में अनुसूचित जातियों और पिछड़े वर्गों को कोई प्रतिनिधित्व नहीं दिया जाता है। इसलिए, उन्हें उचित प्रतिनिधित्व दिया जाना चाहिए। 6. अनुसूचित जातियों में से कुछ को भूमि आवंटित की गई थी, लेकिन उन्हें अवैध तरीकों से उनकी भूमि से बाहर निकाला जा रहा था, क्योंकि वे हाथ से मुंह तक जीने के लिए अतिसंवेदनशील हो रहे थे। इसे तुरंत रोका जाना चाहिए। 7. सरकारी स्वामित्व वाली शामलात भूमि सहित मुफ्त भूमि अनुसूचित जातियों और पिछड़े वर्गों को तुरंत आवंटित की जानी चाहिए। 8. हजारों शिक्षित अनुसूचित बेरोजगारों को तत्काल सरकारी नौकरी दी जाए। 9. अनुसूचित जाति और पिछड़े वर्ग के कर्मचारियों को पदोन्नति में आरक्षण का लाभ दिया जाए।धानसभाओं के अंदर और बाहर दोनों जगह ठोस प्रयास किए, जिनमें अमर शहीद भगत अमरनाथ जीका जीवन बलिदान भी शामिल है। 10. केएएस और आईएएस में अनुसूचित जातियों का प्रतिनिधित्व होना चाहिए। 11. नगर निगम शहरी क्षेत्रों, अधिसूचित क्षेत्र समिति क्षेत्रों में बेघर अनुसूचित जातियों और पिछड़े वर्गों को मकान दिए जाएं और संपत्ति के स्वामित्व के अधिकार के साथ-साथ मकान बनाने के लिए सरकार से वित्तीय सहायता भी दी जाए। केंद्र सरकार द्वारा बनाए गए 12 श्रम कानूनों को जम्मू-कश्मीर में तुरंत लागू किया जाए। 13. अनुसूचित जातियों और पिछड़े वर्ग के उद्यमियों को आसान ऋण और क्रेडिट लाभ के माध्यम से वित्तीय सहायता दी जाए। 14. झुग्गी-झोपड़ी में रहने वाले अनुसूचित जातियों और पिछड़े वर्गों को संपत्ति के मालिकाना हक के साथ स्थायी कॉलोनियों में पुनर्वासित किया जाना चाहिए। 15. अनुसूचित जाति के छात्रों के लिए सभी छात्रावास सुविधाओं के साथ अलग डिग्री कॉलेज। 16. स्नातक और स्नातकोत्तर छात्रों को आईएएस जैसी परीक्षाओं में प्रतिस्पर्धा करने और कौशल विकास पाठ्यक्रमों के साथ-साथ राष्ट्रीय और अंतर्राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर नौकरी पाने की तैयारी के लिए मुफ्त कोचिंग दी जानी चाहिए। 17. मैट्रिक पास अनुसूचित जातियों के लिए क्रैश कोर्स कार्यक्रम उन्हें उद्यमिता और स्वरोजगार के लिए प्रशिक्षित करना। भारत में दलितों के अधिकारों के लिए शहीद हुए अमर शहीद अमर नाथ का नाम शहीदों के इतिहास में दर्ज होगा। भगत जी की बेटी श्रीमती चंचला भगत राजिंदर नागरा बन तालाब जम्मू में रहती हैं और सामाजिक कार्यों में लगी हुई हैं। संदर्भ:- 1. भगत अमरनाथ की बेटी श्रीमती चंचला भगत से प्राप्त भगत अमरनाथ के व्यक्तिगत विवरण 2. लेखक को कई विवरण ज्ञात हैं क्योंकि उनका जम्मू में अपने प्रवास के दौरान राष्ट्रीय नायक भगत अमरनाथ जी से जुड़ाव था? यह लेखक “पसमांदगी” में लेख लिखते थे। बाबा साहब डॉ. बी.आर. अंबेडकर के जीवन और कार्य पर पेपर

GURU RAVI DASS –A- PREEMINENT MYSTIC SAINT (Guru Ji’s 648th birth Anniversary falls on 12nd Feubary,2025 ) Compiler: Er. H. R. Phonsa, Jammu “So purifying is Guru Ravi Dass, that the dust of his holy feet is worshiped by all.” Said (Guru Nabha Dass) Since in the majority cases not much was written down about the lives and teaching of the mystic saints, by saints themselves or their educated devotees except Brahmin saints. True Saints never wanted anything in their glorification and there was wide spread illiteracy among their devotees, particularly in respect of the Dalit saints. Many things about their life events were carried orally through ages. So, confusions, variation and contradictions mixed up later about their parenthoods, places of birth, family details, religion or castes, dates associated with their life facts including births and deaths. Later writers collected different clues from different sources so forming their own views, but at times varying with one another. In case of Dalit saints this version had more relevancies. After long discussions and comparison of different research works by different scholars, some facts were churned out to be most acceptable. The largely accepted facts about the life of revered Jagat Guru Ravi Das are given here. Whereas differences in the opinions of different writers still persists. Guru Ravi Dass was born on Magh Purnima (Sunday-Ravi) in Samvat 1471 (1414 AD) to Sh. Santosh Dass & Shrimati Mata Kalsi Devi of Chamar caste at Mandiva Thein now called Goverdhan Pura near Banaras. Some scholars give the names of his parents as Shri Raghu & Shrimati Mata Karma Devi. Guru Ravi Dass lived an exalted `life span of 126 years & left his mortal frame in 1540 AD to join back into the supreme ocean of Bliss or the Creator of Universe. Some scholars quote his life span of 151 years. But for want of authentic information such things are bound to happen. In one of his verse (tohī mohī mohī tohī antar kaisā kanik kaTik jal tarañg jaisā) Guru ji said that there is no difference between Him and Universe Creator, as there is no difference between Gold bracelet and between water and water current. Guru Ravi Dass was born at a time when the orthodox and superstitious Hindu & Muslim priests had adopted rituals, exterior body decorations, scarifying animals, visiting different places, bathing in different rivers, recitations from their Holy religious books etc. as sole means of salvation from the circle of births & deaths. The Hindus had closed all their places of worships (temples), schools, entry into Government services or honorable services in private sectors for Shudras.Instead the Shudras were assigned to perform dirtiest duties for the Brahmans, Khatriyas & Vaishayas as per Hindu religion rules framed by Manu, the writer of Manusmiriti. All decent living were ruled out for shudras. Guru Ravi Dass, a revolutionary saint, denounced caste system which is based on un-natural laws & upheld life of “Virtue” saying ; “If a Brahmin is virtue less, Offer him no worship ‘O ‘Ravi Dass, Worship instead the feet of a Chandal, If he is Found full of virtue.” Deciples:Guru Ravidas had initiated in to Bhagati Marg Pt. Ganga Ram,Raja Peepa,Maharaja Chander Pratap, Bibi Bhanmati,Maharani Jalibai, Maharani Meerabai and many others during his life time. Guru Ji a Great Democrat:- Guru Ravidass set in motion great revolutionary democratic thinking so advised the rulers to provide equal and decent means of livelihood to all their subjects and he said, I want kingdoms where every one is well-fed, And all should live in harmony, only then Ravidass shall feel happy. Guru Ravidass gave a call to religiously enslaved un-touchable to cut the chains of their slavery and advised them to struggle to have freedom from Tyrant rullers. Pradeen Ka Dheen Kaya, Pra Dheen Bin Dheen, Ravidass Dass Pradheen Ko Sab Hee Samjey Heen Meaning:The enslaves have no religion and he is religion less person. Every body treats him as weak and low caste person. On the same subject Shri Guru Ravidass advised untouchable to shed away feeling of being weak and helpless. Decrying Enslavement chains :- He said:- Pradheen Pap Hai, Jan Liyo Hey Meet Ravidass Dass Pradheen Ko Koun Kare Hai Preet Meaning: Enslavement is curse and no body respects or loves to him sayth Ravidasss. Guru ji advocated for complete independent domain saying Ravidas Manush Kar Vasan Kuo, Sukh Kar Hain Doyu Thanv, Ek Sukh Savraj Main,Dusra Margat Ganv. Meaning : A person can blissfully live in two places only. One is in self government and the other in cremation ground after death. Guru Ravi Dass preached the rule of Almighty: Almighty has created everybody equal and there cannot be any difference between persons of different castes. He said, If the world has arisen, From the same SPIRIT (Flame) How can any body bring about any distinction? Between high & low, Brahman or cobbler (Chamar). He further elaborated by saying, Ask not caste “o” Ravi Dass, What is there in clan or caste? Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaish, or Shudra, All belong to the same caste. He also said “If thou are born to Brahmin (Manu proclaimed Superior by birth) mother, why you have not born through a different body aperture.” The true saints like Ravi Dass come to this world to preach true message of God realization, Love & devotion to Lord, they don’t denounce other religions but dogmas & rituals. Guru Ravi Dass said, Those who are not dyed internally in love, But merely make an outer display, They will go to the world of death, Truly doth Ravi Dass state. Guru Ravi Das Ji Ki Vani:-Keeping in view spiritual richness of Guru Ravi Dass’s hymns, 40 of them were incorporated into the Holy Granth Sahib by Shri Guru Arjun Dev ji, the 5th Sikh Guru the compiler of it.These Hymns fall under the following Ragas – Siri (1), Gauri (5), Asa(6), Gujari(1), Sorath(7), Dhanasari(3), Jaitsari(1), Suhi(3), Bilaval(2), Gaund(2), Ramkali(1), Maru(2), Kedara(1), Bhairau(1), Basant(1), and Malhar(3) in the holy Granth Sahib Amritbani Guru Ravidass Ji” :- It was formed by the Sant Samaj of Ravidassia qaum after thorough research of Guru Ravidass Bani by universities and announced by the Sant Samaj (Dera Sach Khand Ballan near Jalander City Punjab) to the followers of Guru Ravidass Ji Maharaj on the 633rd anniversary of the birth of Guru Ravidass Ji at Shri Guru Ravidass Janam AsthanMandir, Seer Govardhanpur, Varanasi on 30 January 2011. Amritvani Guru Ravidass Ji contains 140 Hymns, 40 pade, painti akhri, bani haftawar, bani pandran tithi, baran maas updesh, dohra, saand bani,anmol vachan (milni de samen), laawaan,suhag ustat,manglachar, besides 231 saloks along with 40 Hymns contained in Guru Granth Sahib. Need of a living Master (Guru);- Since God is formless, so it is not possible for humans to see or catch Him, without which man cannot become perfect. God becomes accessible only when He takes human form & come to the level of human in this world. This human form of pure spirit is called Guru by the saints. So Guru is God’s incarnation. Sain Bulleh Shah Said “God (Moulla ) hath taken the form of man (Guru)” Guru Arjun Dev Ji Said, Guru Nanak Says, This is the rule of Ram (God), Nobody shall get salvation, With out Guru (Master) Guru Ravi Dass Said: God, Guru & Saint, Are the same in super consciousness? This is the metaphysical essential truth of all scriptures, Make no difference between them, Even, if, you have to bear the pain of being cut with a saw. Guru Ravi Dass preached the rule of Almighty, that He has created everybody equal and there cannot be any Guru Ravi Dass preached to the world true message of God realization, Love & devotion to Lord, through loving His creations he didn’t denounce other religions but dogmas & rituals. Guru Ravi Dass said, “Those who are not dyed internally in love, But merely make an outer display, They will go to the world of death, truly doth Ravi Dass state”. Sri Guru Ravidas, preached that God realization can only be through devotion to a true Naam dyed or realized saint and, not through Persons who preach dogmas, animal scarifying, roaming in jungles, observing austerities, etc. He said those who are not dyed internally in love, but merely make an outer display shall not find peace after death. God becomes accessible only when He takes human form & come to the level of human in this world, as idols are lifeless, the animals & birds cannot communicate with us, the past respectable Saints and Noble persons/ Souls are as far away as God, so a living Saint or Master can only guide us. This human form of pure spirit is called Guru by the saints. So, Guru is God incarnation. Sat Guru Kabir Said “Worship thou the true worshiper of the Lord .” Among guru Ravidas’s disciples were Meerabai, Raja Peepa ,Rana sanga many more. Guru ravidas is said to have Three meetings with Guru Nanak. Guru Ravidas had many meetings with Kabir sahib, Ramanand and many other saints and he travelled far and wide including South India. Guru Ravidas advised his disciples to lead a clean life, refrain from animal killing for eating or scarifying before gods & Goddesses, never take wine or any other intoxicants. Guru Ravi Dass said: “Those who eat meat, they in fact cut their own throat, For whosoever is meat eater, he will have to go to hell “sayeth Ravi Dass.” He further said, “Even, if wine is made with Holy water of Ganga ,Saints drink it not.” While expressing contribution of Guru Ravidas Ji and Kabir Maharaj in the society upliftment on spiritual spheres Sain Peepa Ji a deciple of Guru Ravidas sayth Had there been not born Kabir and Ravidas in Kalyuga, the spiritual books (Vedas) upper caste people domination and non spiritual dealings( Kalyug thoughts) would have buried deep the preaching of saints? (Sant Peepa Ji said so) Guru Ravi Dass spread the message of love for all, devotion to Lord, universal brotherhood, honest earning for livelihood & to discard all that does not help in God realization. By doing so he became one with Lord. Said, Ravidas. Guru Ravi Dass’s 648th birthday is falling on12nd Feb. 2025 and the same shall be celebrated throughout India besides in many foreign countries with reverence. The best way to remember Guru Ji is to follow his ideals.

SADGURU KABIR JI (Paying Respectful Tributes on His 507th Parnirvan Divas falling on 23rd February , 2025 ) Compiler : Er. H. R. Phonsa, Jammu Revered Sadguru Kabir Sahib, a Dalit - Revolutionary saint was one of the founding fathers of Bhagati Movement (1375-1700) in Northern India. Bhagti movement was akin in many ways to Protestant Reforms of Christianity that began in Europe in the 1500s. Bhagati Movement saints were all revolutionary and practical in their approach to God realization. They Challenged the fruitfulness of the old-time worshiping techniques like outer body decorations, celibacy, dogmas, rituals, bathing in designated rivers including superstitious methods formulated by priestly classes. Dalit saint Guru Namdev (1270-1350) is said to be the first saint in the Bhagati Movement or Sant mat the devotional transformation of medieval Hinduism in the North. Nirguna Bhagti as preached by Bhagti Movement saints is Bhagti or worship approach to achieve the ultimate God realization objective It is based on the non atributary means ( nirguna) of the supreme Brham ( Universal Creator) of non personnel, all pervading ineffable, unutterable or indescribable Reality, which cannot be spoken with human tongue. It cannot be written in any worldly language alphabets. Sant Mat is based on the reality of merging the re-absorbable jiva or atma of the finite soul into the infinite ineffable sacred Reality. This supreme Reality can only be realized within human body under guidance of a God realized soul called Guru, Master or Guide. Kabir Ji said “Guru Manas Kar Jantey,Te Nar Kahiye Andh. Maha Dukhi Sansar Main ,Age Jam Ke Bandh.( Kabir Granthawali- Page 3) Meaning if anybody underestimates the authority of a realized Guru, they are blind or ignorant . Such persons suffer heavily in this world and even after death and so face curse of Yamraj ( Death god or Kal) Kabir was a supreme Mystic master so his authority is indescribable. The true Bhagati is sharing with God,get yoked to God and devotion to God. The Bhagti movement is devotional religious movement. Majority of Bhagati Movement saints or religious guides, preachers, poets Gurus, and Bhagats came from all walks of life and religions. But majority of them were from Dalit castes or Hindu exploited low caste persons including Shudras and Ati Shudras. They rejected the theory of polarity of gods as well as the Vaishnava doctrine of Avatars of supreme Lord. The saints or seers believed in and preached God as an Absolute and ultimate Reality. Kabir said “Sahib Ka Ghar Santan Mihi, Sahib Sant Kush Anter Nahi”. ( Kabir Shabdavali Part -2/37) God is present in Saints body frames. There is no difference between God and Saints i.e. they are one and the same. Kabir ,( from Arabic al-Kabīr ) which means "The Great ,the Supreme, one of the 99 names of Allah. Many Muslim Ullmans have described Kabir Ji as MUHAVIZ meaning a mystic personally, which cannot be easily understood. Whatever a Muhaviz does it is only for seeking divine grace. As per legend Kabir is said to have born in 1398 and passed away in 1518. He became disciple of Ramanand (1366-1467) in 1455.So Kabir was younger to Saint Namdev by 128 years,. Kabir was 16 years elder to Guru Ravidass and 71 years to Baba Nanak. These three legends of Bhagati movement had common life span of about five decades. Kabir himself has said about his caste Hindu Kahun To Main Nahin, Musalman bhi Nahin Panch Tatav Ka Putla,Gabhi Kheley Mahin (Kabir Sakhi Page 75) Meaning:- I am neither Hindu nor Muslim. My body is made of five perishable material ( Earth, water, air, fire and ether) , where in my invisible Soul with Almighty as it source resides. Kabir was a weaver by caste as mentioned in many slokas Kabir himself besides many other saints “Oshi Mat Meri Jat Julaha,Har Ka Nam Liyo Main Laha”.( AG524) My caste is lowest Jolaha ( Weaver). But I have got benefitted by worshiping Hari (God Almighty). Kabir’s disciple and spiritual heir Dharamdas said, “Mai Turkani,Bapp Julaha, Beta Bhagat Bhaiy “. Meaning:- Kabir’s mother was Muslim his father was weaver( Julaha), but their son became worshiper of universal Creator. Guru Amardas, 3rd Sikh Guru said “ Nama Shinbaa Kabir Julaha, Pure Gur Te Mat Pai”.( AG Panna 830). Maharashtra Sain Tukaram said, “ The Momin Kabir”. Or Kabir was Muslim. Kabir is said to be married with Mai Loi and the couple had one son Kamala and a daughter named Kamali. Kabir earned his livelihood from profession of weaving. Although Kabir was a highly realized Nam dyed personality, even then his opponents called him Nirgura meaning not having a religious, spiritual Master. So, he approached Ramanand (1366-1467) for seeking his blessing. But Ramanand belonged to Sri Sampardai, who observe strict Caste system. Ramanand Ji would never accept a Shudra or Muslim as his disciple. Kabir Ji is said have lied on the steps leading to Ganga Ghat, where Ramanand used to go for bathing daily before sun rise. While coming down on steps he struck Kabir and Said “Ram Ke Parare Kaho Ram Ram”. O, Ram’s creation say Ram -Ram. So, Kabir Ji became disciple of Ramanand as confirmed by Ramanand later. Earlier Kabir and Ramanand had worshiping norms, poles apart; even then Kabir respected Ramanand as his Master. Later Ramanand also adopted Sant Marg or Nirgun-Bhagti Marg and one of his poems is contained in Sri Guru Granth Sahib ( Adi Granth Panna 1195) ( Kat Jayeyo Re ghar Lago Rang, Mera Chit Na Chaley Man Bhayo Pang---)Meaning: why to go elsewhere and adopt external means of God realization, when He resides in one’s body. With this worship technique his (Ramanand’s) mind had been lamed and tamed, so had come under his control. Although there is no record of Kabir getting formal education but he was brilliant and laborious from childhood. Kabir himself confesses in one of his Padha (Couplet) Mas-Kagaj Shuyo Nahi, Kalam Gahi Nahi Hath. Meaning:- I have not touched ever ink and paper, the medium of writing. But Kabir have vividly described the true state of our society (Samaj). Whatever he preached, he testified its validity by giving practical worldly examples. Kabir said “Tou Kahta Kagaj Ki Lekhi, Main Kahta Ankhan Dekhi”. Meaning worldly philosophers say what they have read from books but Kabir says out of his practical knowledge. Renowned authors Karine and W.H. McLeod in their book” The Saints” has give following details of Kabir’s works in a easy by Linda Hess. 1. Guru Granth Sahib 226 ( Padas) distributed in 16 Ragas. With 237 or 239 Salokas. But V.K.Sethi of RSSB in his Kabir the weaver of God’s name, mentions them as 228 peoms and 243 salokas) 2. Panchvani -810 Sakhis in 59 sections or angas with 384 pads. 3. Kabir Bijak has 84 Ramainis,115 Sabadas,353 sakhies, 34 miscellaneous 4.Kabir Granthavali has 403 poems,810 couplets and 7 Ramanies( Edited by Sham Sunder Das). Sadguru Kabir has the distinction among all saints that his teachings and Bhajans (Songs in the praise of God) crossed all religions and geographical barriers. His teaching are every household lore and his name every household word. His teachings are held in high esteems among all religious persons. Kabir was a devoted revolutionary saint with democratic bent of mind. He discarded all that was human created methods but unnecessary for God realization. Saint Peepa Sahib (1408-1448) said in praise of Kabir Sahib: “Jo Kal Mainj Kabir Manj Na Hote, To Ley Ved aur Kalyug Milkar,Bhagat Rasatal Dete”. ( SGGS Panna 695) Meaning:- If in the Kalyuga there had not been Kabir, both religious scriptures and Kalyug ( Iron age) would have thrown souls in to hell. Dadu Sahib a prominent Kabir disciple said “Dadu naam Kabir ki, jae koi leve ott , unko kabahu laage nahin, Kaal vajr ki chot” . Meaning:- who so ever recited Kabir’s name( Kabir Manter),shall not be punished by Kal( Negative power) The 5th Sikh Master Guru Arjundev Ji, who authored Adi Guru Granth in 1604 , was made to sit live on a hot iron plate and hot sand was poured on his head. He declared in Adi Granth Sahib, (AG-622). “Sant Ka Marg Dharam Ki Porri”. Meaning the worshipping path shown by the saints was the true religious way to achieve salvation. Kabir Ji was also teased badly by his religious opponents. Prior to the Bhagti Movement the God realization was based on external methods and decorations, allowing only few High Caste persons to have right of Bhagati, worship for God realization or salvation from the unending birth and death prison of Karmic circle called “Action and reaction”. These methods were not only biased and costlier but time consuming too, so beyond the reach of poor strata of Hindus and Muslims, untouchables or untouchable converts. Dalits were debarred by high caste scriptures from reading and worshiping God. Bhagati Movement saints preached the NIRGUNA Bhagti or un-attributable God realization worship. It had no place for external rituals or dogmas. Kabir ( Sakhi Sangrah-127) “ Bambi Kutey Bamrey, Sanp Na Mara Jaye; Murakh Bambi Na Dasey sarap Sabhan Ko Kaye”. Meaning: O foolish why beat snake barrow and not snake. It is snake not barrow which is poisonous. By saying so Kabir explains that it is your mind power, creator of all sinful ideas, which needs to be brought under control not the body under control of the mind by external means. Similarly a person engaged in worldly ills behaves as if a great worshiper of god but does not lose ego and continues to be hardhearted. Kabir decried external worship means by saying------ Ajamedh, Gomedh Yag,Ashawmedh,Narmedh Kahey Kabir Adharam Ko Dharam Bataven Ved ( Meaning:-Slaughtering animals like goats, cows, horses and men as oblation in religious sacrifices along with religious books including Vedas preach against true religious norms , so said Kabir). ( Kabir Shabdawali page 353) Kabir disapproved the Brahminical methods of living on alms. “I shall prefer to die than living on begging”. Kabir sahib decried the external false methods of worshiping Lord, human division on the basis of castes, religions and sex. Caste System:- All Bhagati movement saints have decried caste system. Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666-1708) Ji said “Eh Pitta Eks Ke Hum Balik”. Jat Nahi Jagdish Ki, Hari-Jan Ki Kaha Hoi. Jat Pat Ke Kich Main Dub Maro Mat Koi”. ( Kabir Granthawali-359) Meaning; If the Creator “Jagdish” has no caste, how a person can have it. Let no one get drown in the caste mud and dirt differences. So, give no importance to castes. “Alla Ek Masit Basat Hai,Avar Mulak Kis Kera, Hindu Murat Ram Nivasi, Duh Mahi Tat Na Hera”.( AG Panna 1349) Muslim say their Alla Khuda (God) resides in Mosque and Hindu Says his God resides in an idol, then Kabir questions, who reside elsewhere. Murti Puja (idol Worship):- Kabir has shown that the worship of dead stone idols was a futile exercise for salvation . He said “Pakhan Ghar Ke Murti Kini De Ke Shati Paun, Je Eh Murti Sachi Hai To Gharan Harey Khau”. ( AG-Panna 479) Meaning: A sculptor from a stone piece sculptures an idol with cutting and beating while sitting on its chest wearing shoes. If the idol has life and feels pains of hammering it should first kill and eat up the sculptor. So idol is life less stone and to worship it nothing but useless. Kabir ji saith “ Joo Maritik Ko Chandan Charave,Us Se Kahu Kavan Phal Pave.” Meaning by making offering sandalwood paste to a lifeless body or stone (idol), what one is going to get, as idol being dead cannot grant any boon. False Sadhus (Hermits) :- All those who wear different colored and styled clothes but void of real worshiping techniques are not saints or Sadhus. Kabir declared “Vey Nar Jogi Kar Janey, Khoje App Sarira. Tinko Mukti Ka Sansa Nahi Kahit Julah Kabira ( KGV Page 246)Meaning:- The Jogi ( A person absorbed in Surat-Shabad Yoga) is one who searches Lord with in his body. They should not worry for salvation as salvation is assured to such persons proclaims Kabir, the weaver. Kabir further explains that a real Sadhu is found of love and not of money. A sadhu found of money or worldly pleasures is not a real Sadhu but a Thug (Cheat) Pitirpuja (Deification of ancestors) :- The innocent peoples were made to shed offering to Brahmins on the death of a person, then at monthly and yearly intervals for salvation of the departed soul. This has remained since ages a great source of income of the pundits, that is why Brahmins do not let this system die. Bhagati movement saints one and all decried it with full force. Guru Ghasidas said “I see pitarpuja as act of foolishness”. Kabir Ji saiyth “Jivat Pittar Na Manney Kou,Muye Siradh Karahi, Pittar Bhi Bapurey Kahu Kaya Pavhi,Kouya,Kookar Khahi” Alms or begging:- The majority of Brahmins live on alms in one way or the other proclaiming that the Jajmans (gift giver to Brahmin for performing religious ceremonies) shall be granted heaver after death if they gave offering to Brahmins in cash and kind. Kabir said “Marr Jayon,Mangoon Nahi, Apne Tan Ke Kaj, Parmarath Ke Karney, Mujey Na Away Lajj” Meaning:- I shall prefer death than resorting to begging for my livelihood. But begging for community cause, I do not feel hesitant. Kabir again explains the qualities of a Sadhu or actual realized soul as “ Sadu Bhuka Bhav Ka, Dhann Ka Bhukha Nahi, Dhan Ka Bhukha Jo Phirey,So to Sadhu Nahi”. Meaning a sadh or God realized soul has passion for love and not money( worldly temporary gains) Tirath Asnan (Bathing in manmade holi waters) :- Saints decried Tirathasnan as well. It was not only wastage of time and money, but it enhances ego. KabirJi said’ “ Kayya Manjis Koun Gunna, Jyon Ghat Bhitar Malna. Layoki Athsath Tirath Nayi Kayorapan Tyon na Jayi”. (Adi Granth Panna 656). Meaning that bathing has no spiritual use .It is like cleaning an empty earthen pot. If a bitter guard is made to wash in sixty eight holi water of designated rivers/ tanks (Tiraths for Hindus),it does not lose its bitterness. The Maan or mind cannot be controlled by external means Celibacy, naked wondering in forests:- Kabir Sahib refutes such acts as fruitless, leading no where in spiritual progress. He said in (Sant Sad Guru Kabir-324) “ Nagan Firt je Payiaye Yog, Van Ka Mirig Mukat Sab Hog. Moond Mudaye Je Sidhi Pai,Mukat Bherr Na Gaya Kai. Bindu Rakh Jo Tariye Bhai,Khusere Kyon Na Param Gat Pai”. Bookish knowledge:- Even ritualistic reading is of no use declares Kabir “Qazi Kathey Kateb Qurana, Pandit Ved Purana,Veh Akhshir Jo Laka Na Jayi,Matra Lage Na Kanna”. Meaning:- Muslim Law Officer reads from holy book Quran and Hindu Pandit reads from Hindu holy books Vedas and Puranas. But the divine word is beyond writing or reading as it cannot be written in any worldly language. He again sayth “Vidya Kot Sabhey Gunn Kahey, Parbrahm Ko Par Na Lahey” (KGV-152) Consecration & desecration of a place :- It was said that anybody dying at Kanshi gets heaven against getting hell to those who die at Maghar. To prove this notion as false falseness in his last days ,Kabir Ji shifted from Kanshi(auspicious ) to Maghar (inauspicious) . Kabir Ji said “ Manhon Kathor Marey Banaras narak Na Vanshiya Jayi,Har Ka Sant Marey Haranbey Tian Sagli Sain Tarayi”. Meaning:- A hardhearted person devoid of love for humanity, even if dies at Banaras cannot escape punished in hell, but a saint who worship Hari ( Lord) even if he dies at Haramba i.e. Maghar, shall get eternal peace to his chain of relations. Kabir Ji Shed his mortal body frame at Maghar on Magh Shukla Ekadashi in January 1518. Kabir Sahib’s ways were revolutionary and democratic, teaching of love, arguments scientific, courage of an iron man and he carried will of a perfect Sidh Purash. He was Darvesh .He pulled religion out of cage of superstitions, dogmas, rituals, religious hate and preached for universal brotherhood by devotion or Bhagati, to Lord of all lords. He preached family life and earning for one’s living by fair means. The best devotion to Kabir will be by faithfully following his preaching. Er. H.R.Phonsa The author can be reached Email:zenithrs@yahoo.com and hrphonsa@gmail.com Mobile :- 9419134060 .

Let The National Harmony Grow. Also Published in the Greater Jammu3/2/2025 By: Er. H. R. Phonsa, Jammu. Many senior intellectuals, religious and political generally keep advising to live in the society, in a harmony. The RSS chief is one among many who expresses his mind to have harmony in society. He said on 4, November,2025 “It is the responsibility of RSS persons to remove disparities to establish harmony”. Again, on 26th Jan, 2025 “Differences should be respected and cohesion is the key to live in harmony” (PTI). Many other wise persons are heard to repeat such preachings very loudly “सामाजिक समरसता व सद्भाव के लिए काम करना आवश्यक है (Working for the social harmony in society in foremost important). Their saying need be taken seriously and followed. An ideal hormonic society, creates peaceful atmosphere for all, in society, so living there shall be a boon. Difference (disproportion, विषमतायें) can be Natural and human generated. The Natural differences are body deformities, colours, sexes, health, wealth and intellect, may generate sympathies. Human to human given differences are Low and high castes, untouchability, human hate, means of education, employments, economic generation, National income sharing, different interpretation of same law for different persons, unequal treatments for same crime, unequal awards for similar wise and heroism acts. Such acts grow disharmony besides generating ill will, revelry, blood sheds, etc. Sadly, many men of authority at times overlook such sane advices, so generate, disparities in social, economic, educational needs for all, which is rejected by those who actually suffer from such tactical propositions and forced to play proven controversial cards. Such un-wanted acts work counterproductive to foster brotherliness among our societies and prove a strong barrier to generate a fully homogeneous society. Let us ponder over a bit on such prevailing conditions which at times prove mis-matcher to establish harmonious समरसता society. Indian society, belong to the eight major religions (धर्म) e.g. Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Animism/Adivasi) with numerous cultures (संस्कृतियाँ, customs (रीति-रिवाज). Many religions have expanded by migration of people from other religions as a matter of individual and/ or collective suitability. For migration both peaceful and violent means played part. So, their parting time bitterness continue simmering and multiplying day by day. Some religious exploiters, when publicly air such hate generating tales instead of burying them down, result in uncontrollable gales of blood. This way past happening’s spoils peace of present generations as “someone else pays for deeds of others (करें कोई भरें कोई)”. Many suffer still, but unfortunately inter -religious contradictions are not countered unanimously, even by those who understand value of harmony in the society. Hindu Religion has basic law of division of its followers into four Varnas, now castes (Brahmin, Khatriya, Vaishya, Shudras) later added Ati Sudras (Out castes). They all has same worshiping deities, worshiping ways but differed in their castes, duties and services performance. Harder the duty assigned to a caste person in Hindu caste hierarchy, lesser the remunerations, privileges and recognition in the society. The Hindus laws support prevailing untouchability enmass, so the devil continues troubling 76.5% of Indian population (Mandal Commission) in way or the other. The Caste division of Hindus, itself is the greatest hurdle in fostering equal human relations between all Hindus, so establishing harmony in the society suffer. There are in-numerable contradictions within inter-religious thoughts, procedures, meals, rituals, places of pilgrimages, dates etc. Therefore, harmony in Indian society lacs mental support. Since long past, the prevailing circumstances have shown that a multi-religious system due to narrow mildness on religious matters, generate hate, as every religion, when in majority forces supremacy over the other, leaving perfect harmony to suffer. Wide gaps in religious preachings and practices hurt harmony. This fact was well known to the British Government, who exploited this to their advantage. The British Crown had realised that it was difficult to keep India slave for long, after the first war of Independence1857, as Indians had started unitedly resisting government policies. As U. K has multi- political party based parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy Government system, so they wanted some similar governing system for India too, when they shall free India. So, they started planning adult franchise democratic governance system for united and free India as was culminated in GOI Act.1935. As a first attempt, Lord Canning nominated three Indians to the Council in 1862 namely, the Raja of Benares, the Maharaja of Patiala and Sir Dinkar Rao. The GOI Act 1909 i.e. Morley-Minto Reforms, gave Indians limited participation in legislative council. To continue the process, three committees namely “The Franchise Committee; the Committee on Home Administration and the Feetham Function Committee”, which sat in India between 1918-19. Simon Commission with three round table Conferences were also British Government efforts to reach at an agreed solution to settle franchise question with allied problems between Congress party, Hindu Maha Sabha, Kings, Knights Muslim league and other religious minorities. But failed. Congress agreed to grant reservation in franchise to Sikhs, Christians, Anglo- Indian, but not to Depressed classes. Dr. Ambedkar and his associates were demanding in all British formed committees, forums, equal rights to Depressed Classes with reservation as per their populations under the free Indian Constitution. Dr. Ambedkar was agitating for getting considered his people as a separate minority with in Hindus, but not as Hindus. Dr. Ambedkar’s proposals were being opposed by Hindu leaders, as they were pleading that caste related issues were their internal matters, which they can solve even after Britishers quit India. Dr. Ambedkar was opposing to such proposals, and wanted Depressed Classes peoples tangle be solved by Britishers, before freeing India. The MacDonald Award of 1932 sanctioned the separate electorate to the Depressed Classes (now known as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes). It was opposed by Mahatma Gandhi so a negotiated agreement “Poona Pact “was signed between Dr. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi. Reservation in Services and political seats was agreed for SC and other Minorities as per their population. After the WW-II the Britishers were in a hurry to quit India, so Cabinet Mission 1946, was sent to finalise Independence to India Tangle. Pakistan was created, Country was divided, lacs died during migration others suffered losses of home and hearths besides losing properties worth $ billions. Even creation of India-Pakistan as two sovereign countries, on the basis two nation theory failed to bring peace in this sub -continent. Instead of bringing solace it resulted in more human tragedies. Even after 78 years, partition scars are visible and its wounds simmering. Main reasons was ego of both Hindu-Muslim political leaders. Indian Constitution came into being on 26 January,1949 and many pledges were made to progress in unison. Indian Constitution promised to establish India as a "Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic" and also to secure to all its citizens: Justice, social, economic and political; Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; Equality of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all Fraternity (भाईचारा, बिरादरी) assuring the dignity (शान, गरिमा, मर्यादा) of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation. In these 75 years Indian can boost of numerous materialist gains for the country, but the inter, religious, social and political humanist treatment was found lacking in many ways, so harmony in the society. Still students are beaten to death on touching a water pitcher in schools by SC students, a SC bride groom is beaten on riding a mare back, a SC worshiper is beaten on entry into a temple etc. For identity of a Hindu individual, caste disclosing is a must. Sadly, the free Indian government managers have miserably failed to achieve for all Indians promised ideals, which can boost harmonic fraternity in Indian society. Various inequalities are being reported daily in the press in the social, education, employment, administration, judiciary, media means and their results, with lacking in the timely needed remedies. Education, the only asset for Dalits in being made costlier, so slipping out of their reach. Some of the glaring examples of our failures are discussed here under. a) As per (NCRB), rapes, worst insult on humanity, goes on uncontrolled with 86 cases daily. As many as331519 Indian women of all ages (10% minor) were involved in rape between (2014-2023). But sadly, conviction rates for rape ranged between 27%-28% from 2018-2022. b) The NCRB also reported 1,12,000 farmers committed suicides in the last 10 years (15 May,2024). Reports show $Billions loan of elite Indians written off. c) About 81.35 crore people in India receive free food grains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) in operation since April,2020(Promised till 2028), is a clear indication of lack of employment to all able bodies. d) India has a highly unequal distribution of wealth, with the top 10% of the population holding 77% of the country's total wealth, where as bottom 50% share 6.5% of it. When an average adult holds 4,30,000 in wealth with almost of them holding nothing. e) The SCs who are 20,13,78,086(16.6%) in India continue to be vulnerable to caste-based atrocities. The NCRB records show 50,900 (2021) and 57,582(2022) registered atrocities against SCs. The atrocities against STs and Tribal people (Women included) is also on increase. This is despite the enactment of “The SCs & STs (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act-2015” enacted with tall claims to tide over past follies before BJP rule in Centre. The atrocities on weaker sections of society in the BJP ruled states do not show any betterment . In Rajasthan alone 20839 atrocities were recorded between1st Jan, 2019 and 30th Nov,2021(patrika.com) f) According to the 2011 census, 65.5 million people lived in slums in India, which was 17.4% of the urban population and 5.4% of the total population. These unfortunates are surly in majority from weaker sections of Indians. g) According to data presented in Parliament on 29th March,2023, (15.92%) of OBCs, (7.65%) of SCs and (3.80%) of STs totalling (27.37%) are given representation, respectively, while their collective proportion of these communities in the total population is well over half. h) Over 42,000 posts reserved for SC, ST & OBC were lying vacant in union ministries, out of 78,923, govt told Lok Sabha on 1st January 2020. Why these posts remain unfulfilled remains mystery. i) Between (2018 &2023) 650 High Courts judges were appointed 492(75.69%) from General category with SCs (3.5%) and STs (1.5%), OBC (11.7%), a short fall of26.19%. But unfortunately, not single general category intellectual has raised a finger, so how there can be harmony in society. Many more mendable lapses can be quoted. j) The ever-increasing wide gaps in share in the existing Industry and Commerce, Media, employment spheres etc. between the elite and weaker sections is depict no urgency of Indian ruling political minds, so promoting fraternity is big hurdle. k) The Dalits have education as their major bread earning source, but in central universities have, SCs and STs are less than 11% and5%) in teaching posts. This produces silent heart burns, so social disharmony. With high hopes that elite India decides to peacefully share resources and give partnership between elite and deprived sections, to allow harmony to take deep roots so giving a chance to 1949 promised fraternity and dignity to grow among all Indians. Let us understand the rule “Empty belly produces turbulent mind” and it needs corrections.

Appeal to Readers of this blog. Dear brothers/Sisters The Blog was created to share general information’s, particularly about Dalit Icons, Dalit problems with suggested measures to solve those problems . The respond from you all is very encouraging for which I remain indebted to my readers. The collective views of all the three blogs readers viz Deprived classes (81 essays), Dalit vision (122 essay) and Dalit Society (81essays) has reached over 2,66,600. Also, I find some short coming in the material posted, particularly related to Icon’s Castes, Dates of their birth/death, as pointed out by my esteemed readers. Some readers while pointing out some short comings also project as it was due to my deliberate effort to high light or down grade any particular Caste. To those readers, my humble submission is, I pursue no financial/business interests through this Blog, it was created to only share knowledge, based on already written material available on different site, books, I could lay hand to read, forming source of material shared here. New research is going on in the world in different institutions and new facts are being churned out daily. It is not humanly possible to read/takr note such material, particularly by an advanced aged individual like me, and update material here daily. Knowledge sharing need be a joint effort, if any one of my readers finds short coming in respect of the material shared here, he/she can simply share it with me giving his/her source, I shall be glade to share the same here, giving the source of new material. I have no interest in the Blog write up other than sharing knowledge/information, so no personal ego, no rigidity in adopting changes, if a valid source is shared. The only lapse can be a bit delay, due to reduced working time because of my advanced age. All readers are therefore requested to help to make it really a reliable source of information/knowledge. Er. Hem Raj Phonsa

Was Dr. Ambedkar a Liberator of Dalits only ? By: Er. H. R. Phonsa One can only feel sorry to note that Indian Parliament (18th LS) session, called for marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution with other business utilised its scheduled time to the extent of only 52% (LS) and 39%(RS), knowing well every minute of our Parliament costs tax payers Rs 2,50,000/- per minute. It was still more unfortunate that the major controversy involved and chairman of Indian Constitution Drafting Committee Baba Saheb Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, who laboured with, his reduced team, for 2 years,11 months and 18 days to write World’s best Constitution. The controversy originated from the reply to the debate by Hon’ble Home Minister in Rajya Sabha on 17th Deccember,2024, where he said: “There is a fashion these days — Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar… Had you chanted the name of God these many times, you would have been blessed with heaven in seven births.” Shah’s tone and tenor was one of aggression was stated by “the Wire”. The opposition MPs in Parliament and Indian Public on roads objected to the statement of the Indian Home Minister .Let us examine, why so many people world over , in all life spheres, remember daily and on many special occasions Bharat Ratna Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Many of Dr. Ambedkar’s followers who take him as their Guide, perhaps has no concept of heaven comforts after death. It is also a common knowledge that humans remember their elders (Living or dead) for their help, good deeds and sane advises, which they rendered during their life time. Dr. Ambedkar created many worlds records during his life time. He also worked for the welfare of his people, who lived life even worse than animals. He fought to raise them as human, who could now rightfully enjoy all constitutional laws of the land. Such peoples are over 75% of Indian population. Symbol of world knowledge” Baba Saheb had earned in whole world super academic education degrees. He knew ten languages (Sanskrit included). He had written and deliberated on all world subjects, particularly on the problems and remedies of deprived people. So, anyone who wants to speak or write on important subjects like economics, law, anthropology, politics, religion, education, women empowerment etc. consults the writing of Baba Saheb for guidance even after seven decades of his demise. So, there should not have been any controversy on Dr. Ambedkar’s name reciting, as he has already been declared in survey of 10,000 years for 100 persons by Oxford University as one among 4 at the top (Budha, Mahaveera, Ashoka, Dr. Ambedkar) who worked for world But irruption of a controversy to remember Dr. Ambedkar from Indian Parliament, to which people look for justice and healthy, well-balanced wise thoughts and guidance’s, is unfortunate. Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar like many others world leaders challenged powerful rulers and religious authorities, for the denied rights of his people, so, cannot be defaulted. Many such Contenders were executed to silence their voice, but he was lucky to get escaped from 10 deadly attacks on him, as Baba Saheb objected to toe their line of thinking. Our freedom struggle carries numerous stories of such rebels, to whom we now respect as Shaheeds (Martyrs). Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar’s contest was for freedom of India from British Raj in addition to his people’s freedom from religious subjugation and for their denied equality before law of the land. He was born as a low caste Hindu (Mahar) so he bore worst life treatment from non-else but his own high caste religious persons, who openly claimed/claim Hinduism incomplete without low caste shudras (now OBC, SCs and STs). Despite the facts Shudra practised works and crafts for everybody’s comforts, still all worldly progress doors of education, decent means of employment and dignified life were closed for them till, Baba Saheb and other Dalit freedom icons shake them vigorously and lawfully opened for all Indians. Manu, the Aryan Law giver made inequality as key to award privileges and punishments for Hindus on the basis of caste gradation. Manu declared, the punishments need reflect the caste order, with the leniency being reserved for the Brahmin and graded severity for the three lower varnas. Hardest punishment for Shudras as per Manu's Law (unit 6). Baba Saheb declared it as root cause discriminations on the basis of caste among Hindus, so burnt on 25Th December,1925. Against the Hindu text laws based on inequality Baba Saheb Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, whom many called as modern Manu in the Indian Constitution, he drafted ,guaranteed equality before the law for all persons within the country, regardless of rank or condition of an individual(Art 14) ; Art.15 Prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth ;Art.16 Guarantees equality of opportunity in public employment ; Art.17 Abolished untouchability and any discrimination or disability that arises from it and Article 21 guarantees right to life and liberty for everybody. Article 19 guaranteed Freedom of Speech and Expression, peaceful assembly, forming associations or unions or co-operative societies, right to move freely and settle anywhere within territory of India. Article 21 guarantees Protection of life and Personal Liberty according to procedure established by law. Similarly, Article 13(1) States that any law in force before the Constitution that is inconsistent with the fundamental rights is void and 13(2) States that the state cannot make any law that takes away or limits the rights guaranteed in Part III of the Constitution. While outlaying his commitment for the upliftment of all Shudra castes he said in Bombay Legislative Council in 1927 “Whenever there is a conflict between my personnel interests and the interests of country as a whole, I have always placed the claims of the country above my personnel claims --- when there is a conflict in interests between country and the Untouchables, the untouchable’s interests will take precedence over the interests of the country”. The population of those to whom Baba Saheb declared as servile (Shudra) classes, was as much as 18.93% of the British India population as per censes of 1901, 1911,1921against 5.52% Brahmins population. Even a stone hearted person shall melt on hearing that a Mahar caste woman was taken to the police court, citing her crime of selling watermelons in open and in Bomey Presidency having then population of 22,081,317(1911) and there was one BA and 6-7 Matriculates in 1918-19 (Dr. Ambedkar memorandum to South -borough Committee). Severely hurt by Hindu’s treatment towards his people with no indications for any change in their behaviour, Baba Saheb in his meeting with the South -borough Committee (27 Jan.1919) demanded equal rights in future Constitution of India for Depressed Classes, as a Separate Minority within Hindu religion, and not as Hindus. Dr. Ambedkar was convinced that most of Hindus leaders (Political and religious) including Gandhi ji were opposed to give Constitutional Rights to Shudras or restructure Hinduism on equality for all. For Such bold speaking, he was taken as a defiant of Hindu religion. But Hindu leaders had already agreed to give such rights to Muslims, Sikhs, Indian Christians, Europeans Anglo Indians communities. Dr. Ambedkar even challenged the Britishers in RTCs to leave India forth with, as they had failed to bring any change for betterment the Indian subservient classes, in their 170 years rule. Dr. Ambedkar betted for freedom to India, with freedom to “Slaves to the British Slaves”. Even in feudal governments, Brahmins were comfortable and Shudras sufferer. Baba Saheb hard labour brought Honour to India and welfare of all Indians. To cut slavery chains of Hindu women Dr. Ambedkar drafted and moved in Parliament, Hindu Code Bill. It was withdrawn by Nehru, due to its opposition by majority Hindu Political& Religious (Misguided women included), leaders. Still later governments could not negate it for long and passed in parts, so Indian women got equality with men in all spheres. For this, Indian women feel indebted to the first Law Minister. He pleaded for freedom to India, as united India in his1946 London press conference as per 1935 Act, proving wrong to those who claimed that Baba Saheb was supporter of division of India on caste lines. (Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar By Dhanjay Keer pages 139, 384). When Churchill in 1942 directed to put all Indian leaders in Andemans and Seyshells jails for their support to “Quit India Movement”. Dr. Ambedkar (Member of Viceroy’s Council) alone had courage to object the PM’s proposals in Council Meeting saying “Gandhi, Nehru, Rajinder Babu etc.” were national heroes and were fighting for independence to India, which was not a crime. Records show Dr. Ambedkar refused all temptations like British Knighthood title with support for his proposals to empowering his SCs/ST people, crores cash offer of Nizam Hyderabad, Premiership offer of Patiala King, if, he enmass their religions, so proving his opponents wrong who termed him as enemy of Hindus. Dr. Ambedkar founded the Peoples Education Society in 1945 depicts his vision for education to all is now benefitting over 50,000 students from all Castes and religions. Indian labour came from all castes, regions, religions and as Labour member in Viceroy’s Council (1942-46), Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar got enactment for the labour welfare Laws as: Reduction of working hours from12-14 to 8; Health Insurance Scheme; Labour Welfare Funds; Provident Fund Act; Minimum wage; Equal wages for equal work for all; Leave benefits for even piece workers; Dearness Allowance benefits; Maternity leave with pay benefit; Minimum wages Act; Periodic Revision of Scale of Pay; Tripartite resolution of Industrial disputes; Ban on Employment of Women on Underground Work in Coal Mines; Making Indian Factory Act; National Employment Agency (Establishing Employment Exchanges), States and Union Public Commissions etc. The RBI was established in 1935 following Baba Saheb ‘s research experiences publications for his PhD, DSc Degrees. He also proposed many other financial institutions including Finance Commission, planning commission etc. A few of Baba Saheb’s visionary planned projects included the many Multipurpose Hydrolectric Projects on rivers for benefits of whole of India. He also planned: India’s Water Policy; Electric Power Planning; Post War Economic Planning and Indian Statistical Law. Commenting on the Indian Constitution and Baba Saheb Ambedkar: Justice M.C. Chagla, Cabinet Minister, CJ of HC Bombay and long-time colleague of Dr. Ambedkar, said “Every Bhartiya citizen would remember gratefully the name of Dr. Ambedkar, when they enjoyed his, her rights”. These all facts undoubtedly show that Baba Saheb Ambedkar worked for all Indian and they all owe indebted to him. Words :1756 Dated 30-12-2024