This 92 YO Ex-Minister From UP Doesn’t Own A House But Still Fights For People’s Rights

In a nation where politics is synonymous with corruption and most politicians only care about building their empires rather than actually working for the people, it is hard to believe that there is an ex-cabinet minister of a state legislature who is living a simple life in a weary house. Amidst news of scams and scandals by politicians making headlines almost every day, here is a man who is setting examples by his dedication towards community service.

Jamuna Prasad ‘Bose’, two-time minister and four-time MLA from Uttar Pradesh’s Banda is a one of a kind politician. The 92-year-old veteran leader is a man of few possessions and lives in a run-down house in the middle of the city.

“I don’t exactly remember when I rented this house. It must be more than 50 years ago. I pay the rent through my pension.”

Born in Khinni Naka in Banda, Jamuna Prasad earned the title, ‘Bose’ for his struggle for the rights of the people. He always took pride in using it and even now, tries his best to help people he has lived with over the years.

“I haven’t retired from politics; my friends don’t allow me to do that. I am still very much busy with my work.”

Bose contested his first Lok Sabha election in the year 1962 with the help of money pooled by his friends but lost. He contested again in 1967, and the assembly election in 1969 but his fate didn’t change. Speaking of the old days, he said,

Bose eventually won the election in 1974 and became the Minister for rural development and Panchayati raj after winning state assembly polls in 1977.

He was a part of Mulayam Singh Yadav’s cabinet in 1987 as a Minister for animal husbandry and fisheries.

One of Bose’s friend and neighbour of four decades, Ram Sanehi Singh had some kind words to say about his generous neighbour.

With half of his pension being spent on medicines and the other half on household spends, Bose has not much to show for in his twilight years. However, the veteran leader is content with the life he has lived.

“I have no regrets; people and even my family members tell me that I could have done this and that, I just smile, I have no regrets.”

Gone are the days when politics was about serving the people and building a better future for the current generation. Looking at the current breed of politicians all over the world, the world needs leaders like Bose. Sadly, that only seems like a dream now.

News Source: Hindustan Times