A Congress MP today sought Bharat Ratna for renowned social reformer Jyotirao Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule, a pioneer in women's education.
Rajiv Satav made the demand in Lok Sabha during the Zero Hour, saying their work in social reform and women's education was path-breaking.
Savitribai Phule was the first woman teacher in India, he said, adding that her husband actively encouraged her efforts and the couple opened the first school for girls.
The Maharashtrian couple are hailed for their work in social reforms, fight against caste-based disicrimination and work for education of women and dignity for widows, issues which were considered a tabboo in 18th century.