Nitish Kumar Thanks PM Modi for Bharat Ratna to Karpoori Thakur

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Centres decision to confer Bharat Ratna on his political mentor Karpoori Thakur, expressing delight that the announcement came on the eve of the former Chief Ministers 100th birth anniversary.

Patna, January 23: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Centre's decision to confer the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, on his political mentor, Karpoori Thakur. The announcement, made on the eve of Thakur's 100th birth anniversary, was met with delight by Kumar, who serves as the president of the Janata Dal (United) (JDU).

Positive Message to Deprived Sections

Kumar emphasized that the decision to bestow the Bharat Ratna on Karpoori Thakur will send a positive message to marginalized sections of society, including Dalits and backward classes. He asserted that this recognition fulfills a long-standing demand of the JDU, which has planned a grand rally in Patna on Wednesday to commemorate Thakur's birth centenary.

Long-Standing Demand Fulfilled

Kumar, a staunch admirer of Thakur, expressed his elation over the announcement. He recalled his consistent efforts in advocating for the Bharat Ratna to be conferred upon Thakur, stating, "I have been demanding Bharat Ratna for Karpoori Thakur for a long time. I am delighted by the announcement. It brings to fruition a long-standing demand of the JDU."

Kumar's Admiration for Thakur

Kumar's deep admiration for Thakur is evident in his tradition of visiting the late leader's ancestral village, renamed Karpoori Gram, on every birth anniversary. This gesture reflects Kumar's profound respect and appreciation for Thakur's contributions and legacy.

Jha Highlights Kumar's Efforts

Sanjay Kumar Jha, Kumar's close aide and the state's Minister for Information and Public Relations Department, took to social media to highlight Kumar's persistent efforts in seeking the Bharat Ratna for Karpoori Thakur. Jha revealed that Kumar had written to the Centre on multiple occasions, in 2007, 2017, 2018, 2019, and again in 2021, requesting the honor for Thakur.

Kumar's Tenure as Chief Minister

Nitish Kumar has served as the Chief Minister of Bihar since 2005, with the exception of an eight-month period in 2014-15. As the longest-serving Chief Minister of the state, Kumar severed ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) less than two years ago.