Ambedkar was voice of marginalised: Modi

New Delhi, March 21  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday while praising B.R. Ambedkar said he was the voice of marginalised who inculcated inner power to the people of the country.

"Babasaheb was the voice of the marginalised. He is a 'Vishwa Manav'," Modi said while speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony of B.R. Ambedkar National Memorial here.

The prime minister also praised Ambedkar's vision for the development of the poor and middle class. 

"He had a vision to realise India's maritime resources, power sector and many things... He always wanted people to be educated," Modi said, adding: "Ambedkar gave inner power to people by compelling people to be knowledgeable."

"When the issue of equal rights to women came up, Babasaheb was clear that if women don't get equal rights I can't be a part of the ministry," he added.