Ranchi, May 29: Ruling coalition partner JMM has sought special state status from the 16th Finance Commission team which is on a visit to Jharkhand.
JMM central general secretary cum spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya informed media about their demands tabled before the 16th Finance Commission team during interaction with political parties.
“We requested the Finance Commission team that the social, economic and geographical situation of Jharkhand should be assessed so that the state can get its due rights. Jharkhand is a major producer of many minerals including uranium, due to which many generations here are suffering from health problems,” said Bhattacharya.
“Diseases like malaria and TB are common in mining areas. Despite this, Jharkhand has contributed to nation building by sacrificing its natural resources. In such a situation, this state is a strong contender for special status,” said Bhattacharya.
He emphasized that Jharkhand is not only the largest mineral producing state in the country, but also provides revenue to the country through railway transportation.
“The state’s geographical location, human resources and labour force also reflect its specialty. Most of the workers go to areas like Leh-Ladakh from Jharkhand. Displacement and migration are big problems here, yet the state does not lag behind in nation building,” added Bhattacharya.
Supriyo Bhattacharya alleged that Jharkhand faces neglect in areas like railways, where rejected racks are always sent, be it Rajdhani Express or Shatabdi train. Despite this, Jharkhand fulfills its share of responsibility.
He said that the conditions of Jharkhand are similar to the northeastern states, where children have to walk long distances for education. Many public welfare schemes are being run in the state.
He demanded that the central government should play a special role in the development of Jharkhand by giving it the status of a special state. The central government should give 75% share in the schemes and the state should bear 25%.
“Jharkhand should not be cheated again and again. The state government has demanded an amount of Rs 1.40 lakh crore, but it has not received it yet. Every time we have to appeal for different schemes, which is not fair to the state,” he stressed.
