S.N. Channabasappa, Shivamogga MLA, has said former Deputy Prime Minister Babu Jagjivan Ram was a beacon of light for oppressed sections of society and a great leader who held many significant positions.Mr. Channabasappa spoke at a programme organised to mark the 119th birth anniversary of Jagjivan Ram, who was fondly called 'Babuji', in Shivamogga on Sunday (April 5). “He was not just a politician, but a leader who fought for the rights of Dalits and oppressed classes. He was among those responsible for abolishing the practice of untouchability," he noted.Shivamogga Deputy Commissioner Prabhulinga Kavalikatti said Jagjivan Ram was one of the greatest personalities of the nation. “We should internalise his principles and remember his contributions. His work should be a guiding light to work unitedly towards nation-building," he opined.The Deputy Commissioner recalled that Jagjivan Ram was an outstanding leader who served the country for a long period. He handled various responsibilities in his career.Lecturer G.K. Sathish spoke about the leader’s life and achievements. Superintendent of Police B. Nikhil, Shivamogga City Corporation commissioner Mayanna Gowda, Social Welfare Department Deputy Director D. Malleshappa, and others were present.The programme was jointly organised by Shivamogga district administration, Shivamogga Zilla Panchayat, and the Social Welfare Department.Published - April 05, 2026 07:11 pm IST