Socialist leader and former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur, will be posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna. A statement to this effect was issued from Rashtrapati Bhavan today on January 23.
This recognition is being conferred posthumously before his 100th birth anniversary, which falls on January 24.
Widely known as Jan Nayak in the state, he served as the 11th Chief Minister of Bihar for two brief terms — from December 1970 to June 1971 and from December 1977 to April 1979.
The acknowledgment from the Central Government fulfills a longstanding request from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his Janata Dal United, marking the recognition of the state’s first non-Congress Chief Minister.
About Karpoori Thakur
Karpoori Thakur was born on January 24, 1924 in the Pitauriya village of Samastipur district, Bihar. In 1940, he passed the matriculation exam from Patna and actively participated in the independence movement. Karpoori Thakur chose to walk alongside Acharya Narendra Dev.
Participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942
He embraced the path of socialism and participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942, leading to his imprisonment. After being released from jail in 1945, Karpoori Thakur gradually became a prominent figure in the socialist movement, aiming to eliminate not only British rule but also caste and social discrimination within society. The goal was to eradicate social and caste-based disparities so that the marginalized, backward, and oppressed could also enjoy a life of dignity.
First-time legislator in 1952
In 1952, Karpoori Thakur won as the candidate of the Socialist Party from the Tajpur assembly constituency, becoming a legislator for the first time.
- In the 1967 Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, under the leadership of Karpoori Thakur, the United Socialist Party emerged as a significant force, resulting in the formation of a non-Congress government for the first time in Bihar.
Karpoori Thakur became Bihar Chief Minister in 1970 and 1977
Karpoori Thakur became the Chief Minister of Bihar in 1970 and again in 1977. He first assumed office on December 22, 1970, during which his initial term lasted for only 163 days.
In the wave of the Janata Party’s significant victory in the 1977 elections, Karpoori Thakur became Bihar’s Chief Minister for the second time. However, he could not complete this term either.
Social Reforms
Despite his brief tenures, he worked for the welfare of the marginalized and oppressed in society for less than two years. During his time in office, Karpoori Thakur implemented initiatives such as providing free education up to the matriculation level in Bihar. Additionally, he made it mandatory for all departments in the state to function in Hindi.
Throughout his tenure, he undertook various measures in the interest of the rights of the poor, backward, and extremely backward sections of society.
His efforts brought significant changes to Bihar’s political landscape, solidifying Karpoori Thakur as a prominent figure in socialist politics within the state.
Legacy as “Jannayak”
Karpoori Thakur earned the title “Jannayak” due to his dedication to the welfare of the people.
His commitment to social justice, education, and the rights of the underprivileged made him immensely popular among the masses.
Impact on Bihar Politics
His tenure had a lasting impact on Bihar’s political landscape, and he became a symbol of social justice and empowerment. His focus on addressing social and economic inequalities contributed to the rise of socialist politics in the state.
Death
Karpoori Thakur passed away on February 17, 1988, leaving behind a legacy as a leader who championed the cause of the common people and worked towards creating a more equitable society.
