Lucknow: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday paid tribute to former Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan on his death anniversary, describing him as a mass leader known for his fighting spirit and commitment to social justice.Speaking at a programme organised in Lucknow by Paswan’s son and Union minister Chirag Paswan, Yogi recalled Paswan’s early rise in Bihar politics and his role as a strong voice for Dalits and deprived sections.“Fifty years ago, Bihar witnessed the emergence of a young leader who became a strong voice for Dalits and the deprived. The people of Bihar accorded great respect to that voice and elected Ram Vilas ji to Parliament,” the CM said, adding that Paswan dedicated his life to building an India inspired by the vision of BR Ambedkar.Speaking about his personal association with Paswan, Yogi said he had an opportunity to work with him during his tenure as Gorakhpur MP. He said Paswan worked tirelessly to secure justice and dignity for Dalits and other marginalised communities in the mainstream.Thanking Bihar govt for commemorating Paswan’s death anniversary “like a national event,” the CM expressed gratitude to Chirag Paswan for holding a similar programme in Uttar Pradesh. He assured him that the respect accorded to Paswan in Bihar would be matched in UP as well.Yogi said that while Paswan’s absence continues to be felt, there was satisfaction that Chirag Paswan was carrying forward his father’s mission. “As a Union Minister, he is making his voice heard on every platform,” he said.Calling Paswan a man of his word, Yogi said his struggle for social justice was pursued without discrimination.
