Patna: The JD(U), which is heavily relied upon by the BJP since losing majority in the Lok Sabha, has once again emphasized its request for special category status (SCS) for Bihar.
Granting SCS to Bihar has been a longstanding demand of the JD(U) leader. Last year, the Bihar cabinet, led by Mr. Kumar, even passed a resolution urging the Centre to grant SCS to the state.
Previously, the Centre had stated that it would not consider requests for “special category status” from any state, in light of the 14th Finance Commission’s recommendation. The SCS was initially introduced in 1969 to benefit states with specific characteristics such as hilly terrains, strategic international borders, and economic and infrastructural backwardness.
With 12 MPs, the JD(U) is the second largest ally of the BJP after the Telugu Desam Party’s 16 in the NDA. The support of allies like the JD(U) and TDP is crucial for the BJP to form the government at the Centre, as the saffron party did not secure a majority on its own in the Lok Sabha elections.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, senior JD(U) leader and Bihar minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary stated, “The JD(U) is a part of the NDA and will continue to be. However, there are certain demands of the JD(U) regarding the financial condition and economy of Bihar that need to be addressed by the Centre. Our request for special category status for Bihar is completely justified and should be fulfilled. We stand firm on our demand for SCS for Bihar.”
The Bihar government has been advocating for Special Category Status (SCS) since 2011-12, as stated by state parliamentary affairs minister Choudhary. He emphasized that Bihar is the most deserving state for special financial assistance from the Centre, as recognized by a resolution passed by both Houses of the Bihar legislature. Mr. Choudhary highlighted that despite significant progress in various sectors over the past decade, Bihar requires additional time to reach optimal growth levels due to historical challenges. This underscores the necessity for special assistance from the Centre to support the state’s overall development. The minister also explained that states with SCS benefit from enhanced fiscal and tax advantages to stimulate economic growth and attract investments, which is crucial for Bihar’s continued progress.