JAMMU, Aug 7: The Batwal Maha Sabha Jammu and Kashmir (Regd) paid floral tributes to the champion of social justice Jaggo Ram at his Memorial in Village Smaiilpur Nagbani here today.
Speaking on the occasion, Subedar Major Romesh Sargotra (Retd) recalled that when the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir did not provide adequate safeguards for Scheduled Castes, Jaggo Ram fearlessly led a peaceful movement demanding reservation in government services and proper representation.
Following public meetings held at Chhan Arorian and Marheen, a historic protest was organized at Karan Park, Jammu, where Jaggo Ram began a fast unto death to press for these legitimate demands.
Despite severe physical suffering and official indifference, he remained steadfast in his commitment. His sacrifice compelled the then Prime Minister, Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad, to intervene and assure the protesters that their demands would be considered.
However, the prolonged fast had irreversibly affected his health, and he attained martyrdom on 6 August 1957. Sargotra stated that although Jaggo Ram did not live to witness the success of the movement, his supreme sacrifice inspired generations of Scheduled Caste leaders and social activists.
The movement continued and eventually resulted in the implementation of reservation for Scheduled Castes in public employment in Jammu and Kashmir in January 1973, marking a historic milestone in the struggle for equality and social justice.
The Sabha members resolved to preserve his legacy and work for community welfare. The programme concluded with floral tributes and a pledge to carry forward his mission. “Shaheed Jaggo Ram Ji Amar Rahein.”
Notable figures who paid tributes included Hony Captain Kamal Mottan (Retd), Hony Captain Ram Lal Sargota (Retd), Kamal Singh Kaith, Ram Lal Lakhotra, Rashpal Lakhotra, Hav. Uttam Chand Sandhu (Retd), Mela Ram Tagga, Mahesh Bhardwaj, Suresh Mottan, Baldev Raj Lakhotra, Ram Dayal, Madan Kaith and Darshan Kaith.