Bhubaneswar: Prominent socialist leader and former Chief Minister of Bihar Karpoori Thakur will be awarded India’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, posthumously.
The announcement was made in a press communique issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.
“The President has been pleased to award Bharat Ratna to Shri Karpoori Thakur (posthumously),” the press communique from the President’s Secretariat said.
The announcement from the President’s office comes a day before the birth anniversary of the late socialist leader.
The socialist icon is well-known for his efforts to uplift the backward classes in Bihar.
Karpoori Thakur was the pioneer in providing the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) with the benefit of reservation as he implemented the recommendations of the Mungeri Lal Commission during his tenure as Bihar CM from 1977 to 1979.
Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “I am delighted that the Government of India has decided to confer the Bharat Ratna on the beacon of social justice, the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji and that too 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.”
