Demand for 50 Acres of Land for 'Ambedkar Knowledge Center' in Ramtek; Nitesh Karale Issues Direct Warning to the Government

Nagpur: Nitesh Karale, who recently gained prominence by securing over 24,000 votes as an independent candidate in the Graduate Constituency election, has now taken an aggressive stance against the government regarding the allocation of land for the 'Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Knowledge Center' in Ramtek. Karale has demanded that 50 acres of land be made available for the proposed center. Following a meeting with office-bearers of the 'Youth Welfare Association,' Karale released a video clarifying his position. He argued that if the government plans to allocate 150 acres for a 'Film City,' then 50 acres from that same land should be earmarked for the Ambedkar Knowledge Center. He has further warned that if the land is not provided, he will launch a protest—either at Nagpur’s 'Samvidhan Chowk' (Constitution Square) or in front of 'Devgiri' (the official residence of the Guardian Minister). What will the Knowledge Center feature? The center is planned to include study facilities, a skill development hub, and initiatives focused on youth welfare. Karale stated that students and youth from all castes within the 'Bahujan' community would benefit from this facility. He emphasized that securing this land is essential to provide students with proper study spaces and offer youth opportunities for skill development. Claiming that this demand has been raised for some time, he questioned the conduct of the administration and elected representatives. While it is reported that the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) had initially shown a willingness to allocate the land, Karale expressed his displeasure over the lack of response from Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule when attempts were made to contact him. Karale expressed the expectation that the Guardian Minister should look into this issue and ensure its resolution. He appealed to Member of Parliament Shyamkumar Barve, Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, and Minister for Cultural Affairs Ashish Shelar to intervene and facilitate the allocation of a site. He also urged Congress leaders to extend their support to this demand. Karale further stated that if a site is not provided for the center—which is to be established in the name of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar—he will not cast his vote for the 'Mahayuti' (ruling alliance). While he clarified that he is not opposed to the 'Film City' project, he emphasized that the government should not overlook the 'Knowledge Center,' a demand that has been raised for some time.