Ambedkar family questions motive behind demolishing Ambedkar Bhavan

Speaking to India Today TV, Babasaheb Dr. B R Ambedkar's grandson of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar raised land grabbing angle behind demolition of the iconic Ambedkar Bhavan in Dadar area of Mumbai. The building was under the People's Improvement Trust and without informing the trust, the BMC and the fire bridge demolished it on 25th July.

"Why this iconic structure was demolished? Trust didn't inform us. Trust didn't even give us fair idea about redevlopment plan," said Bhimrao Ambedkar. On June 25, a group of 300 people demolished portions of the Ambedkar Bhavan and the adjoining Buddha Bhushan printing press. Following which, 20 thousand people gathered outside the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus to protest the demolition of the Ambedkar Bhavan.

QUESTIONS RATNAKAR GAIKWAD'S ROLE

Bhimrao also raised question over role of Ratnakar Gaikwad (State Chief information Commissioner) behind the demolition. "Ratnakar Gaikwad, who is not even a member of the trust, got involved in the procedure. Why was he advocating to demolished this heritage structure? The government should probe land grabbing angle behind this," added Bhimrao Ambedkar.

This iconic structure witnessed many Dalit movements as it was the epicenter of Dalit movement. Dr Ambedkar used to print two Dalit issue-based magazines from the building under the banner of Buddha Bushan Press.

FAMILY DEMANDS STRONG ACTION

Though Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured an action against Ratnakar Gaikwad the Ambedkar family demands strong action against the culprits who are behind this heinous act.

Despite several attempts, Gaikwad was not available for a comment on the issue.

Now, it would be interesting to see what action Fadnavis takes against Gaikwad.

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