BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
“Inequality is the root of every injustice, and freedom of thought is the truest form of freedom.” These powerful ideas continue to shape political and social discourse in India, reminding us that a just society can only exist where equality and open expression thrive. On March 23, Akhilesh Yadav, Chief of the Samajwadi Party, paid tribute to eminent socialist thinker Ram Manohar Lohia on the occasion of Lohiya Jayanti.
The tribute was held at Ram Manohar Lohia Park in Lucknow, where party members and supporters gathered to honor Lohia’s enduring legacy. Speaking on the occasion, Akhilesh Yadav emphasized that Dr. Lohia’s vision of social justice remains highly relevant in today’s times. He highlighted how inequality continues to manifest in various forms, economic disparity, social exclusion, and limited access to opportunities, leading to widespread injustice.
According to him, addressing these inequalities is essential for building a truly democratic and inclusive nation. Lohia strongly advocated for the rights of the marginalized and believed that genuine democracy could only flourish when every individual had equal access to resources and opportunities. Equally important was his emphasis on freedom of thought, which he saw as the cornerstone of real independence. Without the liberty to think, question, and express, no society can progress meaningfully.
The gathering served not only as a tribute but also as a reminder of the responsibility to carry forward Lohia’s ideals. In a time when differing opinions often face resistance, his message of intellectual freedom and social equality resonates more than ever. As India continues to evolve, the principles championed by Ram Manohar Lohia urge society to confront inequality and uphold the true spirit of freedom, where justice, dignity, and free thought prevail for all.
