Babu Jagdeo Prasad ( 02 February 1922 – 05 September 1974) was a prominent Indian socialist leader and activist, often referred to as the "Lenin of Bihar" for his unwavering dedication to social justice and the rights of the oppressed. Born into a poor, socially marginalized family in Kurtha, Arwal district, Bihar, Prasad experienced firsthand the harsh realities of caste-based discrimination and economic inequality. He pursued higher education at Patna University, where he became deeply involved in socialist ideologies and student politics. Throughout his political career, Prasad was a fierce advocate for the backward classes, Dalits, and other marginalized communities, opposing the entrenched upper-caste dominance in Bihar.
In 1967, he founded the Shoshit Dal (Party of the Exploited), which focused on representing the interests of these communities and pushing for land reforms, reservations in education and employment, and greater political representation. Prasad's fiery speeches and commitment to challenging social injustices made him a significant figure in Bihar's socialist movement. Tragically, on 5 September 1974, he was killed by police forces during a protest in his hometown, marking him as a martyr for the cause of social justice. His legacy continues to inspire movements for equality and justice in India, particularly in Bihar, where his contributions are deeply revered.
