Two-Day National Seminar on Dr. Ambedkar and the Partition Conundrum: Lessons for Contemporary India

//Swapnodeep Sen//

The two-day national seminar titled “Dr. Ambedkar and the Partition Conundrum: Lessons for Contemporary India,” organized by the Department of English at Assam University, Silchar, in collaboration with the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies, Kolkata, and the Indian Council of Social Science Research, New Delhi, commenced on February 13, 2025. This significant event, held at the Bipin Chandra Pal Auditorium, aims to delve into the profound legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the complexities surrounding the Partition of India, while drawing pertinent lessons for contemporary society. The seminar serves as a vital platform for scholars and researchers to engage in meaningful discourse on the challenges faced by marginalized communities in the post-Partition era, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the socio-political landscape of modern India.

The inaugural session set a scholarly tone, featuring addresses from esteemed academics, including Professor Saugata Kumar Nath, Head of the Department of English amd Chairperson of the organizing committee and Professor Anup Kumar Dey, the Coordinator of the Seminar and the Dean Students’ Welfare who presented the seminar’s concept note. Prof. Anindya Shyam Choudhary , the dean of the school and joint co-ordinator had spoke on the occassion.The Vice Chancellor of Assam University, Professor Rajive Mohan Pant, delivered the presidential address, emphasizing the importance of revisiting historical narratives to inform current socio-political discussions. The keynote address by Dr. Adititi Narayani Paswan, a prominent sociologist and founder of the Dalit Aadivasi Professors and Scholars Association (DAPSA), provided a critical perspective on “Understanding Ambedkar beyond Reservation,” challenging participants to rethink the implications of Ambedkar’s vision in contemporary contexts.

The seminar featured a series of engaging plenary sessions, including thought-provoking discussions led by distinguished scholars such as Professor Dipendu Das and Professor Joyatee Bhattacharya, who explored the intricate relationships between Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Ambedkar, and the Partition. With a total of 40 papers will be presented over the two days, the seminar attracted participants from across the nation, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. The open question-and-answer sessions encouraged active participation, allowing attendees to engage directly with the speakers and deepen their understanding of the topics discussed. This seminar not only commemorates the legacy of Dr. Ambedkar but also serves as a crucial forum for addressing the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities in India today.