Chennai: Chief Minister M.K. Stalin likened women's progress to the heartbeat of a society and students' development to its eyes, emphasizing the pivotal role of education and equality in shaping a just future.

At the Equality Day celebrations held at Kalaivanar Arangam in Chennai to mark the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin reiterated his government's commitment to social justice and inclusive growth.

"Ambedkar wiped out the thousand-year-old stain of caste discrimination," Stalin said, adding that true equality requires removing biases from people's minds. He emphasized that the well-being of society is closely tied to the nurturing of its students and the empowerment of women.

"Students' progress is like our eyes, and women's progress is like the heartbeat," he remarked, underlining the significance of inclusive development. He noted that education, politics, and power are now democratized, and the Dravidian model government is striving to ensure every individual recognizes their Tamil identity.

Reaffirming the DMK government's support for Adi Dravidian and tribal communities, Stalin said several welfare initiatives are being rolled out to promote their advancement. "While much has been achieved, a long road remains ahead to realize true social equality," he concluded.