“Bharat Ratna Honor for the Late Ex-Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur”.

About Karpoori Thakur:

He served as the chief minister of Bihar twice, was known for championing the cause of the backward classes. Fondly recognized as Jan Nayak (people’s hero),Karpoori Thakur earned widespread respect for his integrity and unwavering dedication to the well-being of the common people. He was born in 1924 into the Nai (barber) community, Karpoori Thakur’s transformation from a marginal farmer’s son to a respected political figure is a testament to his commitment and service to the backward classes’ cause. Karpoori Thakur, recognized as Jan Nayak, was an Indian politician and the 11th Chief Minister of Bihar, serving two terms. His tenures were from December 1970 to June 1971 and from June 1977 to April 1979.

Karpoori Thakur, a leader for social justice in India, made a significant impact on Bihar’s politics. The government will give him the Bharat Ratna posthumously for his outstanding contributions.
PM Narendra Modi celebrates this honor on Thakur’s birth centenary. Thakur, who supported backward classes, passed away in February 1988 after implementing pro-poor initiatives during his time as CM.

Prime Minister hailed Thakur as “the symbol of social justice,” expressing that this esteemed recognition is a tribute to his unwavering dedication as an advocate for the marginalized and a strong supporter of equality and empowerment.

Expressing joy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated his delight that the esteemed award would be conferred upon the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji, especially during the commemoration of his birth centenary.

PM Modi said “This prestigious recognition is a testament to his enduring efforts as a champion for the marginalized and a stalwart of equality and empowerment. “

Karpoori Thakur’s Career:

Karpoori Thakur’s political journey featured significant milestones. From being a minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, he made history as the first non-Congress socialist Chief Minister in 1970. His noteworthy tenure focused on social reform, evident in the total prohibition of alcohol in Bihar.

Furthermore, he played a key role in founding numerous schools and colleges, with a particular focus on underdeveloped regions in Bihar. This ensured that education became accessible to historically marginalized communities.

Karpoori Thakur’s impact went beyond his administrative roles. As a leader, he was passionately dedicated to uplifting the Other Backward Classes (OBC). His crucial efforts played a key role in laying the groundwork for the implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations, advocating for OBC reservation in the 1990s.

In 1977, under KarpooriThakur’s chief ministership, the Mungeri Lal Commission recommended reclassifying backward classes into extremely backward classes and backward classes, encompassing the weaker sections of Muslims. Implemented in 1978, this report marked a significant stride in recognizing and addressing the needs of the most deprived within the backward classes.