New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that he was "delighted" to know that former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur the "great Jan Nayak" will be awarded Bharat Ratna.
"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," PM Modi posted on X.
The Prime Minister further said that Thakur's 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 added.
Meanwhile, Union Defence Minister expressed his joy for honoring Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur with Bharat Ratna.
"I deeply appreciate and express my joy at the decision of the Government of India to honor Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur ji, the former Chief Minister of Bihar with 'Bharat Ratna'," Rajnath Singh posted on X.
"Karpoori Thakur ji worked all his life for the welfare of the poor and backward classes of the society. Taking inspiration from him, as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, I had made a law to provide reservation facility for the welfare of extremely backward and Dalit classes," he added.
"The decision to award Bharat Ratna to Karpuriji is a tribute to the idea of social harmony and poor welfare and his contribution in public life. I thank @rashtrapatibhvn for this decision and express my heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister @narendramodi ji," he said.
This prestigious award is a tribute to Karpoori Thakur's lifelong dedication to the upliftment of the underprivileged sections of society and his relentless fight for Social Justice. Known affectionately as 'Jan Nayak' (People's Leader), Thakur's simplicity in his personal conduct was highly inspiring and his contribution to Indian politics has been monumental.
Former Bihar CM was born on January 24, 1924 and passed on February 17, 1988.
Thakur was born in 1924 in one of the most backward sections of society - the Nai Samaj. He was a remarkable leader whose political journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to the marginalised sections of society.
He served as the Chief Minister of Bihar and was a key figure in the struggle against social discrimination and inequality. His commitment to affirmative action gave representation and opportunities to the poor, oppressed, exploited and deprived sections of the country.
His policies and reforms were pioneering in bringing about significant changes in the lives of many, especially in the fields of education, employment and farmer welfare.
The government also acknowledges his deep impact as a motivating figure for the marginalised sections of society. His life and work embody the spirit of the Indian Constitution, which advocates for equality, fraternity, and justice for all.
Embarking on his political career with the Praja Socialist Party, he later joined forces with the Janata Party during his initial tenure as the chief minister of Bihar from 1977 to 1979. Over time, he established connections with the Janata Dal, marking a significant shift in his political affiliation. (ANI)
