Karpoori Thakur, a prominent political figure in Indian history, created a permanent mark as a hero of civil rights and a visionary leader. Born on January 1, 1923, in the Nalanda district of Bihar, Thakur became a prominent figure in Indian governmental issues, especially in Bihar. His life and political career were described by a steadfast commitment to the welfare of the marginalized and a tireless pursuit of social equality.
Karpoori Thakur arrived at the peak of his political career when he became the Chief Minister of Bihar. His tenure, marked by three separate terms, unfolded during the 1970s and early 1980s. Thakur’s initiative was portrayed by an emphasis on administration that focused on the needs of the standard individuals.
During his tenure, one of his remarkable achievements was the dissolution of the zamindari system in Bihar. This initiative aspired to break the chains of feudal oppression and empower the marginalized sections of society. This bold step was a testament to Thakur’s commitment to land reforms and social justice.
Karpoori Thakur Family
Karpoori Thakur was born to Gokul Thakur and Ramdulari Devi at Pitaunjhia (now Karpuri Gram) village in Samastipur District of Bihar. He belonged to the Nai (barber) community. Mahatma Gandhi and Satyanarayan Sinha influenced him. He joined the All India Students Federation. He left graduate school to join the Quit India Movement as a student activist. For his participation in the Indian independence movement, he spent 26 months in prison.
“The Karpoori Thakur Formula”
In June 1970, the Bihar government appointed the Mungeri Lal Commission, which, in its report of February 1976, named 128 “backward” communities, 94 of which were identified as “most backward”. The Janata Party government of Thakur implemented the recommendations of the Commission. The ‘Karpoori Thakur Formula’ provided 26% reservation, of which OBCs got a 12% share, the economically backward classes among the OBCs got 8%, women got 3%, and the poor from the “upper castes” got 3%.
Karpoori Thakur Jayanti
Karpoori Thakur was chosen for the country’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, a day before his birth anniversary. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid heartfelt tributes to two-time Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur on his 100th birth anniversary, acknowledging his enormous commitment to civil rights and relentless commitment to the welfare of the people.