Introduction

On January 23, the Indian government made a significant announcement, posthumously awarding the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, to Karpoori Thakur, the former chief minister of Bihar.
Thakur, affectionately known as ‘Jannayak’ or the leader of the people, leaves behind a legacy of enduring policy decisions that continue to shape Bihar and the nation.

Karpoori Thakur: Life and Career

A Leader of Contrasts: Thakur, born on January 24, 1924, in Bihar, emerged as the foremost backward caste leader in the state, despite hailing from the minority nai (barber) caste.
Political Activism: He actively participated in the freedom struggle, enduring imprisonment for his convictions.
Decades of Public Service: Thakur served as an MLA from 1952 until his passing in 1988, except for a brief period when he became an MP in 1977.
Respected Clean Image: Despite holding public office for three decades, Thakur maintained a clean image and refrained from personal enrichment through government resources.

Landmark Policy Decisions

Education Reform: Removed English as a compulsory subject for matriculation examinations, aiming to make education more accessible.
Prohibition of Alcohol: Enforced a ban on alcohol consumption to address societal issues stemming from alcohol abuse.
Job Opportunities for Engineers: Introduced preferential treatment for unemployed engineers in government contracts, leading to employment for approximately 8,000 engineers.
Layered Reservation System: Implemented the ‘Karpoori Thakur Formula’ in June 1970, providing 26% reservation, including 12% for OBCs, 8% for economically backward OBCs, 3% for women, and 3% for economically disadvantaged individuals from upper castes.

Challenges and Consequences

Immediate Opposition: Thakur’s reservation policy faced significant opposition, especially from upper castes, and his government fell due to its implementation.
Polarization and Derogatory Remarks: His caste background led to derogatory slogans and polarization in society, despite his clean governance record.
Political Fallout: Thakur’s decision to prioritize the reservation policy was perceived by some as hasty, unlike leaders who consolidated their positions before introducing similar policies.

Karpoori Thakur’s Enduring Legacy

Mandal-Kamandal Politics: Thakur’s legacy remains influential in the ongoing Mandal-Kamandal political landscape.
Recognition by Leaders: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, himself from a numerically small EBC community, has closely associated himself with Thakur’s legacy.
Political Continuation: Thakur’s policies continue to shape the agendas of political parties in Bihar, highlighting the lasting impact of his commitment to social justice.