In a strategic move that has piqued the interest of political observers, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his party JD(U) are gearing up for an extensive three-day celebration of socialist icon Karpoori Thakur’s birth centenary in Bihar from January 22 to 24. Despite Nitish’s recent refusal to become the convener for several INDIA bloc parties, including the Congress, all eyes are now on the upcoming public meeting in Patna on January 24, where significant announcements are anticipated.
The birth centenary events are set to kick off with a function on January 22 in Karpoori Gram, where prominent politicians, socialist activists, and intellectuals are expected to participate. The January 23 schedule includes a discussion on Karpoori’s legacy and the release of two books by the Jagjivan Ram Institute of Parliamentary Studies and Political Research in Patna. The focal point of the celebrations, on January 24, will see Nitish visiting Karpoori Gram and a JD(U) rally at Patna’s Veterinary College ground.
Karpoori Thakur, a two-time Bihar CM and a socialist stalwart, is hailed as the “Jannayak” or people’s leader. Widely acknowledged for pioneering EBC (Extreme Backward Classes) and OBC (Other Backward Classes) reservations, his legacy remains influential in Bihar’s political landscape. The unique 26% reservation model implemented by Karpoori in 1978 allocated quotas for EBCs, OBCs, women, and economically backward classes from upper castes.
With the recently released caste-based survey report indicating EBCs as the largest social block in Bihar, accounting for 36.1% of the state’s population, Nitish Kumar is intensifying efforts to consolidate his EBC constituency. The JD(U) positions itself as a principal advocate for EBC causes, leveraging Karpoori’s significance to reinforce its connection with this crucial voter segment.
The JD(U) has consistently drawn parallels between the political ideologies of Karpoori and Nitish, emphasizing inclusive and assimilative politics. Nitish’s governance model, encapsulated in policies such as strengthening Panchayati Raj, waiving school fees for girls, enforcing prohibition, and implementing pro-people initiatives, aligns with Karpoori’s vision.
As the BJP emphasizes its Ayodhya push with the Ram Temple consecration event on January 22, the JD(U) is countering with a social justice narrative focused on EBC and Dalit consolidation. Nitish’s stance on the Ayodhya event is yet to be clarified, but the JD(U) continues to champion its social justice plank.
Amidst speculation about political realignments, the January 24 rally is anticipated to provide insights into Nitish Kumar’s future moves. If Nitish takes a stand against Modi or the BJP, it could signify commitment to the Mahagathbandhan and the INDIA bloc. Ambivalence might open up other possibilities, making the Karpoori centenary rally a crucial event in Bihar’s political landscape.
