Karnataka Government to Build 250-Foot Ambedkar Statue in Bengaluru: Bhim Sene Celebrates Statewide

Bengaluru, June 24, 2025:
In a landmark move, the Karnataka government has approved the construction of a 250-foot tall statue of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, in the capital city of Bengaluru. The decision comes after sustained efforts and advocacy by the Karnataka Bhim Sene (R) Organization, which led a coordinated campaign across the state for over a year.

To mark the government’s decision, Bhim Sene (R) organized simultaneous press conferences across Karnataka on Tuesday, distributing sweets to the public and congratulating the administration.

The organization had earlier submitted formal memorandums to Deputy Commissioners in all 80 districts on January 27, 2024, urging the government to emulate similar statues erected in Telangana (125 feet) and Andhra Pradesh (206 feet). Their efforts gained further traction during the Winter Session in Belagavi when hundreds joined the “Belagavi Chalo” movement in support of the demand.

In addition to outreach at the district level, the organization also appealed to top political leaders and institutions, including Governor Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM D. K. Shivakumar, Social Welfare Minister Dr. H. C. Mahadevappa, and various MLAs and MLCs. A joint appeal was also made by pro-Dalit organizations.

The issue gained prominence after a large gathering of over 500 Dalit leaders at the Vidhana Soudha during the 2025–26 Budget Session on February 18, followed by a massive protest at Freedom Park on March 6. A statewide media briefing on February 13 further amplified public awareness.

Responding to the collective voice, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah officially announced the project on April 14, during the 134th birth anniversary celebrations of Dr. Ambedkar. The project received cabinet approval on June 19, with the statue slated to be erected on the Jnanabharati University campus in Bengaluru. A preliminary blueprint and location details have been finalized.

Bhim Sene (R) leaders have hailed the move as a victory for the community and all progressive forces. “The government has demonstrated that it listens and acts. This is a proud moment for the people of Karnataka and a lasting tribute to Babasaheb Ambedkar,” on brhalf of the organization  state president Shankar Ramalingiah said at a press conference held at the Bangalore Press Club.