Karpoori Thakur, quota politics pioneer, awarded Bharat Ratna

Modi government confers Bharat Ratna on socialist icon Karpoori Thakur, who implemented OBC quota in Bihar. Thakur’s quota policy, implemented in 1978, included a sub-quota for MBCs, quotas for women and economically weaker sections. This decision is seen as an overture to the most/extremely backward castes in Bihar and a recognition of Thakur’s role in championing social justice.