Karpoori Thakur is one of the names that can be called along with social justice and empowerment in India. Karpoori Thakur was one of the best socialist leaders in the country. He left an incredible mark with his work in the political landscape of Bihar. For his work and efforts, it has been decided that the government will award Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur. Bharat Ratna will be awarded to Karpoori Thakur on 26th January 2024, i.e., Republic Day of India.
Prime Minister of India has called Karpoori Thakur the beacon of Social Justice. He also stated that this recognition is only a testament to his work and efforts as a champion in marginalizing and equality and stalwarting empowerment. In the following article, we will explore the legacy of social justice. Scroll down the page and read his journey from Jan Nayak to Bharat Ratna.
Karpoori Thakur
Karpoori was born in the community of Nai, i.e., a barber, in 1942. His father was a marginal farmer. But with his talent and knowledge, he changed his life and became a political figure. It was his dedication and service, which he offered to the community belonging to the backward class, that created praise for him.
Thakur’s overall political career has been marked with multiple highlighted milestones. He worked as minister as well as Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar. After that, he created history by taking a huge step. He became the first non-Congress Socialist Chief Minister of Bihar in 1970. But what was the reason behind his tenure being noticeable? So, during his tenure, he prohibited the consumption and selling of alcohol in the Bihar state. This decision showed his pure commitment to social reform.
Karpoori Thakur Legacy of Social Justice
Apart from banning alcohol, Karpoori established various educational institutes i.e., schools and colleges in Bihar. His major focus was on the underdeveloped regions of Bihar. So, he established more educational institutions in that field. It will help in ensuring that education is accessible for all people who were historically marginalised. It will give them confidence and also prepare them for a better future.
Karpoori Thakur’s influence was not limited to his administrative role. It goes beyond that. He was deeply concerned about uplifting the Other Backward Classes community. He wanted to set up the stage for implementing the Mandal Commission Recommendations, and his efforts were critical for the situation. It advocated for OBC reservation during the 1990s.
The Mungeri Lal Commission report was submitted in 1977. Takur was holding the position of Chield Minister at that time. He recommended reclassifying the backward class category into two classes, i.e., backward class and extremely backward class, which also includes the weaker section of the Muslim community. The same report was implemented after a year, i.e., 1978. This move has been considered a major change towards addressing as well as giving importance to requirements made by the most deprived section of the backward classes.
Karpoori Thakur: From Jan Nayak to Bharat Ratna
The legacy of Karpoori Thaker includes the decision to remove the English language as a compulsory subject from Class 10th. This decision was made by Thakur when he served the nation as the Education Minister of Bihar. This decision ensured that educational backwards do not suffer from these requirements and can easily pursue further education without worrying about it.
Karpoori Thakur’s decision and policies made a huge impact, and increasing backward politics was rapidly seen in Bihar. This decision helped create the foundation that will offer empowerment to the backward class community. Later on, regional parties such as Janata Dal and Rashtriya Janata Dal were also formed with his influence.
A cast survey was conducted recently in the Bihar state. It was conducted for the first time after the country gained independence, and it has been sought to create the legacy of Thakur. As per the survey, people in the backward class hold approximately two-thirds of the Bihar population. 36.01% of the total population consists of extremely backward communities and 27.12% of the total population consists of backward castes. This data shows that there is potential in reshaping the strategies related to politics and making sure of the availability of quotas for backwards class people in educational institutes and jobs.
Citizens referred to the Karpoori Thakur as a Jan Nayak and even people’s hero for his hard work and efficient work. He remains a figure of admiration and respect. The government has made a huge announcement on 23 January 2024. The socialist leaders will be recognized with the highest civilian reward i.e., the Bharat Ratna Award on Republic Day of India. The government is honouring Karpoori to recognize his role as a symbol of social justice and democracy. The government also wants to acknowledge his impact by becoming a motivating figure for the marginalised section of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Karpoori Thakur?
Karpoori Thakur was the former chief minister of Bihar. He is also known as Jan Nayak. Thakur worked his whole life for the welfare of people. He is considered a symbol of democracy and social justice.
What award is Karpoor Thakur receiving?
Karpoor Thakur will be posthumously awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, on 26 January 2024 by the Government of India. The President of India, Draupadi Murmu, made the announcement on 23 January 2024.
