Thousands to Rally in Pune Demanding Expansion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Bhavan on August 15
Thousands to Rally in Pune Demanding Expansion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Bhavan on August 15
Pune, August 11, 2025 – A major rally is set to take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Bhavan, Maldhakka Chowk, Pune, as Bhim Sainiks and supporters of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar demand long-overdue expansion of the cultural memorial.
This movement is being organized under the banner of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Bhavan Expansion Action Committee, Pune. The committee accuses local and state authorities of delaying the project for over two decades, despite numerous proposals, surveys, and promises made in legislative assemblies.
Background: A Struggle Spanning 25 Years
The original vision was to expand the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Bhavan into a grand memorial that truly reflects the legacy of the architect of the Indian Constitution. In 2000, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) approved the expansion proposal and earmarked a 10,500 sq. ft. plot behind Sassoon Hospital for the development. However, despite official approvals and repeated follow-ups, no concrete action has been taken.
Recent Developments Spark New Outrage
Earlier this year, on February 6, 2025, a peaceful protest was held at the Pune District Collector’s Office demanding immediate action. The authorities responded by merely forwarding the proposal without taking definitive steps.
Even after several requests from prominent political leaders, including the late Deputy CM Dr. Ramesh Kadam and current MP Nitin Rajur, no significant progress has been made. Moreover, the current Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and other senior officials have yet to issue any final directive, despite being repeatedly informed.
A Monument for Social Justice
Organizers argue that Pune – a city rich in social reform history – deserves a monument of national stature honoring Dr. Ambedkar. The current Bhavan, spread over just 5 to 6 gunthas (a traditional land unit), is inadequate to host events or accommodate visitors.
The proposed expanded memorial would serve multiple purposes:
Library and archive of Dr. Ambedkar’s writings
Research center for social justice and constitutional studies
Multipurpose halls for seminars, exhibitions, and public meetings
Hostel facilities for students and visitors
Museum showcasing the history of Dalit movements
Mass Mobilization on August 15
Calling upon the ideology of Shiv, Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar, the committee is appealing to all citizens who believe in social justice, equality, and constitutional values to join the rally in large numbers.
The expansion proposal is estimated to cost around ₹60-70 crore, and the land has already been earmarked. The only obstacle remains lack of political will and administrative execution, according to the organizers.
With increasing frustration and a sense of historic neglect, thousands of followers are expected to gather on Independence Day, not just to celebrate freedom but to assert their demand for space, dignity, and representation.
Event Details:
Date : Friday, August 15, 2025
Time : 1:00 PM
Venue : Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Bhavan, Maldhakka Chowk, Pune
