Karpoori Thakur, ex-Bihar CM and ‘beacon of social justice’, awarded Bharat Ratna posthumously
Karpoori Thakur
The Rashtrapati Bhavan announced on Tuesday (Jan 23) that Karpoori Thakur, the former chief minister of the Indian state of Bihar and socialist leader, will be awarded the nation's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, posthumously. Thakur was known for championing the cause of the backward classes.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) that he is "delighted" that the government has decided to confer the Bharat Ratna on Thakur, who was born on January 24, 1924, in one of the most backward sections of society - the Nai Samaj. Thakur passed away on February 17, 1988.
Thakur was twice chief minister of Bihar and prior to that, the state's education minister and deputy chief minister. He was a socialist leader and freedom fighter, who embarked on his political career with the Praja Socialist Party.
During his initial tenure as the chief minister of Bihar from 1977 to 1979, he joined forces with the Janata Party. He established connections with the Janata Dal, marking a significant shift in his political affiliation, over a period of time.
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PM Modi hailed him as the "beacon of social justice" and said that the award has been conferred on the "great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji" at a time when "we are marking his birth centenary".
"This prestigious recognition is a testament to his enduring efforts as a champion for the marginalized and a stalwart of equality and empowerment. His unwavering commitment to uplift the downtrodden and his visionary leadership have left an indelible mark on India's socio-political fabric. This award not only honours his remarkable contributions but also inspires us to continue his mission of creating a more just and equitable society," PM Modi added.
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Current Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar hailed the announcement and said in a statement that it was a "fulfilment of an age-old demand" by his party that will "send a positive message among deprived sections of the society".
"I have always raised the demand for Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur. The announcement that comes on the eve of his 100th birth anniversary brings me great delight," Kumar said.
(With inputs from agencies)