Patna: Lalu Prasad Yadav, the former Chief Minister of Bihar and a prominent political figure, has left an indelible mark on Indian politics through his unconventional and bold leadership. His political journey, marked by unique decisions and policies aimed at empowering the underprivileged, showcases his deep connection with the masses. Here are some of the key milestones that define his legacy:
- Youngest Lok Sabha MP (1977)
In 1977, a young student leader arrived in handcuffs to file his nomination and went on to win the elections by an overwhelming margin of 3.75 lakh votes. At just 29 years of age, he became the youngest Member of Parliament from Chapra. - First Public Oath-Taking Ceremony (1990)
On March 10, 1990, Lalu Yadav set a precedent by taking his oath as Chief Minister not in the Governor’s residence but in Gandhi Maidan, amidst the common people. - A Chief Minister Who Lived Like the People (1990)
Breaking tradition, Lalu refused to live in the Chief Minister’s official residence or use government vehicles. Instead, he chose to reside in his elder brother’s peon quarters and used a bicycle for transport. - People-Centric Governance
Upon assuming office, he addressed the public, saying, “The rule of votes means the rule of the oppressed. You are the real masters… and oppression of the masters will not be tolerated.” - Night Shelters for the Needy
For the first time in Bihar, 300 night shelters were constructed across Patna’s key locations, including Baily Road, Ashok Rajpath, Buddha Marg, and Kadamkuan Road, to provide shelter to rickshaw pullers, daily wage laborers, and street vendors. - Reserving Patna Club for the Marginalized
In a groundbreaking move, Lalu announced that 60% of Patna Club’s space would be reserved for underprivileged communities, including Dalits, allowing them to hold marriage functions and celebrations. He ensured they could serve traditional food like toddy and pork without restrictions. - Mass Housing for the Poor
Within just one year, 60,000 houses were built across 600 blocks in Bihar for marginalized communities, marking a record in public welfare housing. - High-Rise Housing for Dalits
Multi-story apartments were constructed in affluent areas of Patna, such as Raja Bazaar, Sheikhpura, Lohanipur, Rajendra Nagar, and Kankarbagh, to integrate Dalit families into mainstream society. - Direct Cash Transfer for the Poor
Bihar became the first state in India to introduce direct cash transfers to aid the financially weaker sections. - Special Schools for Musahar and Shepherd Children
Recognizing the need for education among the Musahar community, Lalu established 300 special schools for their children. He also introduced 150 ‘Charwaha Vidyalayas’ (Shepherd Schools), where children could bring their cattle along and study for two hours, with four hours dedicated to vocational training. These schools also provided books, uniforms, and mid-day meals, alongside a stipend of ₹100 per month for Dalit students. - Empowering the Poor in Police Stations
Lalu Yadav issued strict orders to police officers, directing them to treat the poor with dignity at police stations. He emphasized that those filing complaints should be given a seat, treated respectfully, and their grievances addressed fairly without harassment.
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Bihar’s Chief Minister was marked by several such progressive and radical decisions aimed at uplifting the downtrodden. His policies redefined social justice and governance in the state, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence Indian politics.
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