Why is it in the News?

Former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur will be awarded India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, posthumously.

About Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur:

Pre-Independence Influence:

• Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and Satyanarayan Sinha, Karpuri Thakur actively participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942 during his schooling days.
• Aligned with the All India Students Federation (AISF), he left his graduation studies to join the movement for India's independence.

Post-Independence Contributions:

• Commencing his career as a village teacher, Thakur re-entered politics, winning the Bihar Legislative Assembly election in 1952 from the Tajpur constituency.
• Notable for his representation of the Socialist Party, he gained legendary status for championing workers' rights and advocating for reservations for backward classes.
• He launched a fast-unto-death agitation in 1970 for labourers' rights at Telco, leading worker strikes and facing arrest.

Key Contributions:

• Social Justice: Thakur dedicated his political journey to addressing systemic inequalities, striving for fair resource distribution and equal opportunities for all.
• OBC Politics: Recognized as the pioneer of OBC politics in Bihar, he implemented quotas for backward classes, laying the foundation for Mandal Commission recommendations.
• Affirmative Action: Strengthened affirmative action for backward classes, ensuring representation and opportunities deserving of their status.
• Selflessness: As Chief Minister, he refrained from benefiting personally from a scheme meant for political leaders' colonies.
• Alcohol Ban: Implemented a comprehensive ban on alcohol in Bihar in 1970.
• Education: Instrumental in establishing schools and colleges, particularly in underdeveloped regions, to make education accessible to historically marginalized communities.