New Delhi: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, addressed the centennial celebrations of Jannayak Karpoori Thakur, an influential political figure known for his commitment to social justice and the welfare of the poor. The event took place in New Delhi and marked the 100th birth anniversary of the revered leader.
Shri Amit Shah paid tribute to Karpoori Thakur, highlighting his exemplary nature, principles, simplicity, and compassion towards the underprivileged. He reflected on the remarkable journey of Karpoori Thakur from a public leader to being posthumously honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this significant occasion.
The Home Minister emphasized the historical importance of January 23, as it not only marked the birth anniversary of Karpoori Thakur but also witnessed crucial events in India’s history, such as the adoption of the national anthem “Jana-Gana-Mana” by the Constituent Assembly and the election of Bharat Ratna Dr. Rajendra Prasad as the Speaker of the Constituent Assembly.
Shri Amit Shah underscored the transformative impact of Prime Minister Modi’s decision to confer the Bharat Ratna on Karpoori Thakur, stating that it symbolically honored millions of struggling youth involved in politics with simplicity, authenticity, and principles of equality.
The Home Minister drew parallels between Karpoori Thakur’s life and the political ideologies advocated by leaders like Ram Manohar Lohia and Mahatma Gandhi. He praised Prime Minister Modi for implementing these principles in his governance, citing initiatives that uplifted millions of Indians from poverty, provided housing, electricity, and clean cooking fuel, and ensured tap water to households.
Shri Amit Shah highlighted Karpoori Thakur’s role in championing the use of Hindi in government work, echoing Mahatma Gandhi’s emphasis on running the country in its own language to break free from a colonial mindset. He noted that Prime Minister Modi continued this legacy by promoting all local languages alongside Hindi, emphasizing their importance in education.
The Home Minister commended Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to social justice, citing achievements such as the constitutional status given to the OBC Commission, the reservation for OBCs in government institutions, and the allocation of 33 percent reservation for women in various spheres. He also praised Modi’s efforts to empower economically backward upper castes and the reservation granted to OBCs in all government educational institutions.
In conclusion, Shri Amit Shah recognized Karpoori Thakur as a selfless Karmayogi who dedicated his life to the welfare of the poor. He asserted that the centennial celebration and the Bharat Ratna conferred by Prime Minister Modi mark the beginning of a new era, promoting politics based on principles and character in the country.