Former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur, who was famed for being the champion of the poor, has been posthumously awarded the nation's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, ahead of his 100th Birth anniversary on Wednesday.
The announcement was made by the Rashtrapati Bhavan via a Press Communique on 23rd January.
Karpoori Thakur, an eminent Socialist leader and freedom fighter, served as the Chief Minister of Bihar twice, in addition to holding the positions of Education Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in the state.
Beyond his commendable initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized sections, his contributions to legislative affairs are noteworthy.
In 2003, two substantial volumes were published, chronicling Thakur's legislative interventions and debates, a rare accomplishment that documented his role as the Leader of the Opposition. This holds valuable lessons, particularly for contemporary legislators who often exhibit poor attendance in legislative sessions.
Thakur's consistent opposition to Congress, advocacy for the upliftment of backward castes, and his decision to eliminate English as a mandatory language in high school exams, thereby facilitating access to higher education for Hindi-speaking rural students, constitute some of his significant achievements. This initiative was colloquially known as the 'Karpoori Division.'
Despite his Socialist convictions, Thakur displayed pragmatism by forming alliances with ideological rivals like the Bharatiya Jana Sangh while simultaneously empowering religio-linguistic minorities. During his tenure as Chief Minister (1977-1979), crucial portfolios of education and health were entrusted to Muslims—Ghulam Sarwar (1926-2004) and Professor Jabir Husain, respectively. These ministers were granted freedom to implement their vision, promoting Urdu as a medium for employment in government offices and schools.
Challenging the political and educational dominance of the upper castes, Thakur, though not belonging to a numerically dominant caste, stood as a symbol of resistance. Contrary to dubious stereotypes about Bihar, his tenure showcased unparalleled integrity in public office and a modest lifestyle—a rarity among chief ministers in independent India. Thakur earned the title of "Jana-Nayak" (people's leader) for these virtues.
Ironically, in the twilight years of his life, Thakur found himself marginalized by the very social groups for whom he had tirelessly worked towards upward mobility and empowerment.
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