Bharat Ratna: Who Was Karpoori Thakur?
Karpoori Thakur, a two-time Chief Minister of Bihar and a key figure in OBC politics in the state, has been posthumously named for the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India.?The announcement, made on the eve of his birth centenary, recognises the towering leader's significant contributions to Indian politics.?Thakur was first elected to Bihar assembly in 1952 where he continued until his death in 1988.
Why India Remembers Karpoori Thakur?
Karpoori Thakur is famously known as the 'Jan Nayak' or people's leader. He believed in socialist politics and advocated social justice throughout the country. He?served as Bihar's CM for seven months in December 1970 and later for two years in 1977. He was the?first non-Congress socialist leader to hold the position twice.?Thakur implemented total prohibition of alcohol in Bihar in 1970.?
His tenure is remembered for implementing the Mungeri Lal Commission's recommendations, introducing quotas for backward classes in the state.
By honoring Thakur, the government acknowledges his role as a symbol of democracy and social justice, reflecting the values of equality and justice for all as outlined in the Constitution.
Birth and Politics of Thakur?
Karpoori Thakur was born on January 24, 1924, in the Nai samaj (barber society).??His birthplace in Samistupur district was renamed Karpuri Gram in his honour.?He was inspired by leaders like Ram Manohar Lohia and worked closely with Jayaprakash Narayan,?
Hailing from one of the most disadvantaged segments of society, Thakur emerged as an extraordinary leader whose political trajectory was defined by his steadfast dedication to the marginalised sections of society.
A pivotal figure in the fight against social discrimination and inequality, Thakur demonstrated a strong commitment to affirmative action, providing representation and opportunities for the impoverished, oppressed, exploited, and deprived segments of the country, as highlighted by officials.
Throughout his career, Thakur's policies and reforms were groundbreaking, playing a crucial role in effecting substantial improvements in the lives of numerous individuals. His initiatives, particularly in the domains of education, employment, and farmer welfare, were pioneering and transformative.
PM Modi Sends Tributes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid rich tributes to former Bihar chief minister?Karpoori?Thakur, who has been named for the country's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna, on his birth centenary on Wednesday, and said he left an unforgettable imprint on Indian society and politics.
Modi said?Thakur's relentless pursuit of social justice created a positive impact in people's lives.
?His decision was met with heavy opposition but he did not bow to any pressure and his policies laid the groundwork for a more inclusive society, where one's birth did not determine one's fate, the prime minister wrote in an article which appeared in many newspapers on Wednesday.
Modi said his government over the last 10 years has walked on?Thakur's path, bringing in schemes and policies that have brought transformative empowerment.
With PTI Inputs
