Life and Early Background
Droupadi Murmu was born on June 20, 1958, into a Santali tribal family in Uparbeda village, situated in the Baidaposi area of Rairangpur, Odisha. Growing up in a family with deep-rooted cultural and community ties, her father, Biranchi Narayan Tudu, was a farmer and a respected figure in the village, having served as Sarpanch, the traditional head of the Gram Panchayat. This familial role underscores the significance of leadership and community service within her upbringing. Droupadi was initially named Durgi Tudu, after her paternal grandmother, but her nickname, Batti, later evolved into Puti. As her educational journey commenced, she was renamed by her school teacher to Droupadi—a name drawn from the revered character in the Indian epic Mahabharata—reflecting a connection to literature and tradition. Over the years, her name appeared in various forms, including Durpadi and Dorpdi.
Educational Pursuits
Droupadi Murmu's educational journey began with elementary education in her village school in Upar Beda. At the young age of five, she relocated to Bhubaneswar to pursue higher education, marking the beginning of her ambitious pursuit of knowledge. She completed her secondary education at Girl's High School Unit-2 and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rama Devi Women's College, which is known for empowering women through education. Her educational background underscores her commitment to learning, a value she continues to embody in her professional and personal life.
Marriage and Family Life
In 1980, Droupadi married Shyam Charan Murmu, a banker, with whom she had a fulfilling family life that included two sons and a daughter. Unfortunately, her life faced significant hardships and losses over the years. Between 2009 and 2015, she endured the tragic deaths of her husband, two sons—one in a road accident and the other under mysterious circumstances—her mother, and a brother. These personal tragedies have been pivotal in shaping her resilience and dedication to her work. Murmu is also a follower of the Brahma Kumaris spiritual movement, which emphasizes personal transformation and communal service, reflecting her belief in inner strength and community welfare.
Influences and Ideological Beliefs
Droupadi Murmu’s ideological influences are rooted in the legacy of Indian leaders who shaped the nation. She holds Indian independence architect Jawaharlal Nehru in high regard, admiring his vision for a modern India. Furthermore, she pays homage to the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, particularly his emphasis on non-violence and equality, as well as B. R. Ambedkar, who championed social justice and the rights of marginalized communities. These ideological beliefs resonate in her public service and leadership roles, as she actively advocates for the rights and upliftment of underrepresented segments of society, particularly tribals, women, and the economically disadvantaged.
Early Professional Journey
Droupadi Murmu's professional journey began in the late 1970s when she joined the Government of Odisha as a junior assistant in the irrigation department. From 1979 to 1983, her role primarily involved administrative support, which provided her with valuable insights into government operations and public service. This experience laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors in public life.
After her formative years in the government sector, Murmu transitioned to education between 1994 and 1997. She took on the role of a teacher at the esteemed Sri Aurobindo Integral Education and Research Centre located in Rairangpur. During this period, she taught various subjects, including Hindi, Odia, mathematics, and geography, fostering academic growth and inspiring young minds. Notably, Murmu's commitment to education and service was highlighted by her decision not to claim a full salary from the school, a reflection of her dedication to her students and belief in the transformative power of education.
Murmu's early career in both government and education significantly influenced her subsequent political journey. Her experiences in civil service and teaching enriched her understanding of community needs and the importance of grassroots involvement, shaping her compassionate approach to leadership. These foundational years equipped her with the skills and values that would guide her as she moved into the political arena, ultimately leading to her significant roles in public office.
Droupadi Murmu's political journey began in 1997 when she made her mark as a councillor of the Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat. Running as an independent candidate, she successfully secured a seat reserved for women, showcasing her commitment to women’s representation in governance. This role served as a launching pad for her subsequent political career, leading her to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), one of India’s major political parties known for its emphasis on national issues and development.
Her rise within the political landscape continued when she contested and won the 2000 Odisha Legislative Assembly elections from the Rairangpur Assembly constituency. Over the course of her two terms in the Odisha Legislative Assembly from 2000 to 2009, Murmu took on significant responsibilities. During the coalition government between the BJP and Biju Janata Dal (BJD), she held the position of Minister of State with Independent Charge for both Commerce and Transportation, and later for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development. Her tenure was marked by efforts to improve the infrastructure and economic development of the state, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of the people in Odisha.
Murmu’s exemplary service did not go unnoticed, as in 2007, she was conferred the Nilkanth Award for the Best MLA of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, a testament to her effective leadership and dedication to her constituents. However, her political trajectory faced a setback in 2009 when she lost the Lok Sabha election from the Mayurbhanj constituency. This defeat came after the coalition between BJD and BJP dissolved, illustrating the challenges of coalition politics in India.
Despite this setback, Murmu remained active in the BJP’s organizational structure and was appointed to the BJP National Executive (Scheduled Tribes Morcha) in 2013. Furthermore, she served as the district president until 2015, which allowed her to continue influencing party policies and engage with community issues. Throughout her career, Murmu has been seen as a trailblazer, especially as a woman from the tribal community, contributing significantly to political discourse and representation within her state and beyond.
Governor of Jharkhand (2015–2021)
Droupadi Murmu made history when she was sworn in as the Governor of Jharkhand on May 18, 2015, becoming the first woman to hold this esteemed position. Her appointment was significant not just for the state but also represented a broader narrative of women in governance in India. During her tenure, which lasted until July 2021, she navigated a political landscape dominated by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), both at the state level and the national level. This alignment allowed for a cohesive relationship between the governor's office and the ruling government.
One of the hallmark events of Murmu's governance was the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand in 2019, which underscored the ceremonial yet vital role of the governor in the state's political framework. However, Murmu's term was not without controversy. Critics, including former BJP politician Ratan Tirkey, have pointed towards shortcomings in her administration regarding the implementation of self-governance rights for tribal communities in accordance with constitutional mandates. These self-governance rights are vital for preserving the cultural identity and autonomy of Indigenous populations, granted under the Fifth Schedule and reinforced by the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (known as PESA).
Tirkey, along with other advocates for tribal rights, expressed disappointment in Murmu's perceived inaction. He argued that despite multiple requests, she failed to effectively leverage her powers to ensure that provisions of the Fifth Schedule and PESA were implemented "in letter and spirit." This critique reflects broader concerns within the tribal communities about the commitment of leadership to uphold their rights and welfare. Droupadi Murmu's tenure as governor thus encapsulates both the potential for influential change and the challenges embedded in enacting meaningful reforms, especially within marginalized communities. Her period in office was a critical time for Jharkhand, revealing the complexities of governance and the significant responsibilities held by a governor in addressing the nuances of regional and tribal rights.
Background of the Pathalgadi Movement
In response to proposed amendments to the Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act of 1908 and the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act of 1949, the Pathalgadi movement emerged as a significant tribal rights movement in Jharkhand during 2016-2017. These historical laws were crafted to protect the land rights of tribal communities, ensuring that land transactions could only occur among tribals. However, the Raghubar Das-led state government sought to modify these laws to facilitate greater commercial exploitation of tribal lands, which included provisions allowing the government to lease tribal lands for commercial purposes. This shift raised alarm among tribal groups who perceived the amendments as a direct assault on their customary land rights.
The socio-political landscape in Jharkhand became increasingly volatile as the proposed amendments were met with fierce opposition from tribal communities. The Pathalgadi movement gained momentum, with protests occurring across the state. Tensions escalated when demonstrators against the amendments abducted the security detail of Karia Munda, a BJP Member of Parliament. The situation deteriorated further as police intervened, resulting in violence and the death of a tribal man. This heavy-handed response led to the filing of criminal charges against over 200 individuals, including prominent tribal rights activist Stan Swamy, indicating the harsh measures undertaken to quell the dissent.
Droupadi Murmu's Role and Response
Droupadi Murmu, who was the Governor of Jharkhand at the time, found herself in a challenging position amidst this turmoil. Critics, including tribal rights advocates like Aloka Kujur, expressed disappointment in Murmu's perceived lack of support for the tribal communities. They had hoped that, given her background and position, Murmu would advocate for the rights of tribals against the government’s aggressive stance. Instead, Murmu urged Pathalgadi leaders to maintain faith in the constitutional framework, a move that some interpreted as a dismissal of tribal concerns.
In response to growing dissent, Murmu received an unprecedented number of memorandums—192 in total—against the proposed amendments. Political opposition also intensified, with parties such as the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha and the Indian National Congress rallying against the BJP government’s attempts to modify the tenancy acts. Hemant Soren, the then opposition leader, argued that the amendments were a ploy to facilitate land acquisition for corporate interests at the expense of tribal livelihoods.
Outcome of the Movement
Eventually, the mounting pressure and public outcry prompted Murmu to reconsider her position. On May 24, 2017, she chose not to grant assent to the amendments and returned the bills alongside the memorandums from the tribal communities. This decision was welcomed by tribal groups and opposition parties alike, as it reflected an acknowledgment of their grievances. By August 2017, the controversial bills were officially withdrawn, marking a significant victory for the Pathalgadi movement and the tribal populace of Jharkhand. The event underscored the power of grassroots activism in influencing legislative processes and highlighted the continued struggle of tribal communities in India to protect their land rights amidst encroaching external pressures.
Religion Bill
In 2017, Droupadi Murmu, in her capacity as the Governor of Jharkhand, took significant legislative actions by approving the Freedom of Religion Bill, 2017. This bill addressed critical issues surrounding religious freedom and conversion practices within the state. Specifically, it introduced stringent penalties for coercion or luring individuals into changing their religion, fostering an environment of respect for personal beliefs and autonomy. The bill stipulates a penalty of up to three years in prison for offenders, escalating to a four-year term if the victim is from a Scheduled Caste or Tribe, a minor, or a female. This emphasis on protection for vulnerable groups highlights the bill's commitment to safeguarding individual rights.
Moreover, the legislation mandates that individuals who wish to convert to a different religion must inform the Deputy Commissioner of their conversion, providing a comprehensive account of the circumstances leading to their decision. This requirement underscores an effort to ensure that conversions are truly voluntary and not the result of undue pressure or manipulation, thus aiming to uphold the integrity of religious practices while addressing the complexities of inter-community dynamics.
Land Acquisition Act Amendment
In addition to the Freedom of Religion Bill, Murmu also championed amendments to the Land Acquisition Act of 2013, further emphasizing her governance focus on social justice and the rights of marginalized communities. The revisions to this act included significant changes that aimed to expedite compensation processes for land acquired by the government, particularly concerning tribal land. According to the amended law, monetary compensation must now be disbursed within a maximum of six months following the acquisition. This swift framework is designed to alleviate the financial burdens often faced by affected individuals and foster a more supportive transition for those displaced.
However, the amendments also sparked discussions about the social impact assessments that were previously mandatory, as these requirements were removed for certain infrastructure projects. While this may streamline acquisition processes, the omission raises concerns regarding the potential disregard for community welfare and environmental considerations. The balance between development and the rights of indigenous populations remains a critical topic in Jharkhand's legislative discourse, with an ongoing need for vigilant oversight to ensure that the rights of tribal communities are not compromised in the pursuit of progress.
Presidential Campaign
In June 2022, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) officially nominated Droupadi Murmu as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate for the Presidential elections set to take place the following month. This decision came at a time when the country was witnessing a competitive political landscape, with notable opposition from Yashwant Sinha, who was chosen as the candidate for the President by various opposition parties. Murmu's nomination was historic, as she was not only the first tribal woman to be nominated for this high office but also represented an important step towards inclusivity in Indian politics.
During her election campaign, Murmu traveled extensively across the country, visiting numerous states to garner support from citizens and political leaders alike. Her campaign agenda focused on issues that resonated with the electorate, emphasizing development, social welfare, and unity among the diverse Indian populace. Notably, she gained support from several significant regional parties, such as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Shiv Sena (SHS), and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD(S)). This backing from various political factions underscored her appeal and the consensus around her candidacy, even before the polling began.
On 21 July 2022, Droupadi Murmu emerged victorious in the Presidential election, having secured a commanding majority against the opposition's common candidate Yashwant Sinha. She received a total of 676,803 electoral votes, amounting to 64.03% of the total votes. This victory allowed her to make history as the 15th President of India, and she achieved this remarkable feat by winning in 21 out of 28 states, including the Union Territory of Puducherry. Murmu's election was not only a significant milestone in terms of representation for marginalized communities but also reflected the evolving dynamics of India's political landscape, where traditional boundaries of caste and community are increasingly being challenged.
Inauguration and Significance of Droupadi Murmu's Presidency
On 26 July 2022, Droupadi Murmu made history as she took the oath of office to become the 15th President of India. The oath, administered by Chief Justice N. V. Ramana, was a momentous occasion marked by the presence of former presidents, the vice president, the prime minister, and a multitude of dignitaries. Murmu's election as president is unprecedented; she is the first individual from India's designated tribal communities to hold this esteemed office, reflecting a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity within the highest tiers of Indian governance. Furthermore, she holds the distinction of being the youngest president in Indian history, being born after the country gained independence in 1947, and she follows in the footsteps of Pratibha Patil as only the second woman to serve in this capacity.
Key Initiatives and Cultural Engagements
Murmu's first address to the nation on 14 August 2022 coincided with the eve of India's 75th Independence Day, signaling her commitment to uphold the values of freedom and democracy. September saw her launch the 'Pradhanmantri TB Mukht Bharat' program, a significant governmental initiative aimed at eradicating tuberculosis from the country. This endeavor underscores not only her focus on public health but also the broader aim of enhancing the well-being of marginalized communities. In her inaugural months, Murmu also broke ground by becoming the first President to inaugurate the 'Mysuru Dasara', a ten-day festival in Karnataka that celebrates local culture and heritage. Her engagements included visits to the northeastern states of India, such as Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim, where she participated in various development projects, thereby fostering a sense of connection with different regions of the country.
Connection to Roots and Historic Moments
November 2022 marked a personal highlight for Murmu, as she returned to her home state of Odisha to launch several initiatives. Her visit to her alma mater, along with interactions with schoolchildren, was emblematic of her commitment to education and youth empowerment. Walking to the revered Puri Jagannath Temple, she demonstrated a deep-rooted connection to her cultural heritage, further endearing her to the citizens of Odisha.
The spring of 2023 brought notable moments for Murmu, particularly when she took a historic flight in a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet at Tezpur Air Station, becoming only the third president in India to undertake such an experience. Her exhilarating 30-minute flight over the captivating landscapes of the Brahmaputra and Tezpur valleys served not only as a remarkable personal achievement but also as a symbol of her embrace of modernity and support for the Indian Armed Forces.
Political Dynamics and Constitutional Role
However, her presidency has not been without controversy. In May 2023, the inauguration of the New Parliament House under the Central Vista Project sparked a political row, as opposition parties insisted that the ceremony should be presided over by Murmu as the constitutional head of state. Their subsequent boycott highlighted ongoing tensions within India’s political landscape. In response to the controversy, Murmu expressed pride in the ceremonial role of the Prime Minister, suggesting that the Prime Minister embodies the trust of Parliament, while reiterating her own constitutional role in the democratic framework of the nation. This situation serves to emphasize the complexities of the presidential office in India, where ceremonial duties intertwine with substantial political significance.
Electoral Performance Overview
In the 2009 elections, Laxman Tudu, representing the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), achieved a significant victory over his opponent, Sudam Marndi from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Tudu's win came with a considerable margin of 66,178 votes, illustrating both his popularity and the strength of the BJD in the region at that time. This election was part of a larger political landscape in which various regional parties, including the BJD, were asserting their influence against traditional national parties.
The success of Laxman Tudu in the 2009 elections can be attributed to multiple factors, including effective campaigning, a strong grassroots network, and the ability to resonate with local voters' concerns and aspirations. The BJD, led by Naveen Patnaik, has been known to prioritize regional development and welfare, which likely played a role in Tudu’s electoral appeal. The party's focus on local issues, along with its commitment to good governance, contributed to its electoral success.
Moreover, the political dynamics in the region during this time also played a crucial role. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, while influential, faced challenges in mobilizing support amidst growing competition from other regional parties. Voter sentiments were shifting, and the BJD capitalized on these changes effectively. The 2009 elections marked a significant moment not only for Tudu and the BJD but also for the broader political landscape in Odisha and its neighboring regions, demonstrating the increasing importance of regional parties in Indian politics.
State Honours
Droupadi Murmu, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has demonstrated significant electoral success throughout her political career, notably in the various assembly elections. In a notable contest, she garnered 25,110 votes, securing 34.15% of the total votes cast, which highlights her appeal among constituents. This was part of a larger dataset that indicates a competitive electoral landscape where the Indian National Congress (INC) candidate, Laxman Majhi, received 20,542 votes (27.93%), while Braja Mohan Hansdah from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) had 10,485 votes (14.26%). The total voter turnout in this election reached 59.81%, a figure that illustrates both engagement and competition in the political arena.
In another electoral cycle, Murmu continued her strong showing, this time securing 29,295 votes (32.66%) against close rivals such as JMM’s Ram Chandra Murmu who followed closely with 29,253 votes (32.62%). Laxman Majhi of INC trailed with 22,551 votes (25.14%). This closely contested election underscores the dynamic nature of regional politics and the pivotal role that individual candidates play in shaping electoral outcomes. The voter turnout for this election increased to 68.3%, indicative of heightened political mobilization among registered electors.
In the context of her later electoral campaigns, Murmu's results illuminated the evolving dynamics within Odisha's political landscape. For example, during another election, she received 150,827 votes (18.26%), while the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), led by Laxman Tudu, achieved significant success with 256,648 votes (31.08%). This election saw an impressive turnout of 70.27%, demonstrating a robust engagement among the electorate. New parties also emerged influential, revealing shifting political allegiances and voter preferences.
As a testament to her political stature, Droupadi Murmu's achievements have also garnered her numerous state honors from various nations. Among these, she received the Honorary Order of the Yellow Star from Suriname on June 5, 2023, followed by the Order of Fiji, awarded on August 6, 2024. Additionally, the Order of Timor-Leste was conferred to her on August 10, 2024. These distinctions not only reflect her dedicated service but also signify her standing on an international platform.
Droupadi Murmu’s journey in politics started with her tenure as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Rairangpur from 2000 to 2009, before becoming the Governor of Jharkhand from 2015 to 2021. Her political trajectory culminated in her recent nomination and election as the President of India, succeeding Ram Nath Kovind. This significant role not only marks her as the first tribal woman to hold the presidency but also serves as an inspiration for many, showcasing the possibilities for representation and leadership within Indian politics.