Section of Tower Street renamed for Indian statesman

India's president Ram Nath Kovind yesterday likened his country's renowned social reformer, Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, to Pan-African Marcus Garvey.

Ambedkar, known as the Father of the Indian Constitution, has been bestowed a special honour by Jamaica after a section of Tower Street in Kingston was renamed for him.

President Kovind said "It fills me with great pride that one of the ablest sons of India has been recognised so far away from his home".

He noted that some people may wonder about the relevance of Dr Ambedkar to Jamaica.

"Let us always remember that icons like Dr Ambedkar and Marcus Garvey cannot be limited to just one nation or community. Their message of equality for all and their appeal to end all forms of discrimination has universal resonance," the President said.

"Therefore, Dr Ambedkar's message is as relevant to Indians as it is to Jamaicans and to people in every part of the world," he added.

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Desmond McKenzie, said it was important for Jamaica to recognise and pay tribute to an outstanding son of India, whose mark was felt not only in India but right across the world.

"As a mark of our deep respect and to continue to forge that relationship between the people of India and Jamaica, I warmly embrace ad salute this unveiling and renaming and hope that the relationship between both countries will continue," he said.