Remembering Ram Manohar Lohia on His Birth Anniversary

Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia was a prominent freedom fighter, socialist thinker, and political leader who played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence and post-independence politics. Known for his advocacy of social justice, economic equality, and political integrity, Lohia’s ideas continue to influence Indian politics. His contributions to women’s education, caste-based reservations, and nationalist economic policies remain significant even today. On the birth anniversary of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders paid heartfelt tributes to the renowned freedom fighter, socialist thinker, and advocate of social justice. Remembering Lohia’s contributions to empowering the underprivileged and strengthening India, PM Modi hailed him as a visionary leader dedicated to the nation’s progress.

Early Life and Education

• Born on March 23, 1910, in Akbarpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh.
• Lost his mother at the age of two and was raised by his father.
• Completed B.A. from Vidya Sagar College, Calcutta University (1929).
• Pursued a Ph.D. in Economics from Frederick William University (Berlin, Germany).
• His thesis focused on salt taxation in India, aligning with Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy.

Role in the Indian Freedom Movement

• Joined the Congress Socialist Party (CSP) and became the editor of Congress Socialist.
• Became Secretary of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in 1936.
• Arrested in 1940 for anti-war statements and sentenced to two years in prison.
• Key underground leader during the Quit India Movement (1942).
• Arrested in 1944, tortured in Lahore Fort, and released in 1946.
• Advocated Sapta Kranti (Seven Revolutions) for social change.

Post-Independence Political Career

• Joined the Socialist Party and later merged it into the Praja Socialist Party (PSP) in 1952.
• Due to ideological differences, he formed the Socialist Party (Lohia) in 1956.
• Contested against Jawaharlal Nehru from Phulpur in 1962 but lost.
• Won a by-election in Farrukhabad in 1963 and became an MP.
• Formed an alliance with Bharatiya Jan Sangh in 1967 to establish the first non-Congress government in Uttar Pradesh.
• Elected MP from Kannauj in 1967 but passed away on October 12, 1967.

Key Political Ideologies and Contributions

• Advocated economic equality, caste-based reservations, and women’s rights.
• Opposed dynastic politics and elitism in governance.
• Promoted decentralization of power and self-reliance in economic policies.
• Introduced the slogan “Roti, Kapda, aur Makaan” (Food, Clothing, and Shelter) for all.

Tributes on His Birth Anniversary

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Remembered Lohia as a visionary leader, fierce freedom fighter, and champion of social justice.
• BJP President JP Nadda: Praised Lohia for his work in nation-building, social empowerment, and political transparency.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Highlighted his contributions to women’s education, social equality, and political integrity.

Legacy

• Dr. Lohia’s thoughts continue to shape Indian politics, especially socialist and regional movements.
• His work for social justice, economic empowerment, and political reform remains relevant in modern India.
• His writings and speeches are still studied for their insights on democracy, economy, and governance.