Debate Sparks in Jharkhand Assembly Over Scholarship Delays

In the Jharkhand assembly, the BJP attacked the JMM-led government over delayed scholarships for SC, ST, and OBC students and unpaid commissions to PDS dealers. The ruling coalition blames the central government for not releasing funds, citing obstruction by new state guidelines introduced in 2022.

In a heated session at the Jharkhand assembly on Thursday, the BJP accused the JMM-led government of neglecting students' welfare due to pending scholarships. These scholarships, critical for SC, ST, and OBC students, have been delayed, allegedly due to new guidelines enacted by the state in 2022.

The opposition leader, Babulal Marandi, emphasized that the state's procedural alterations have hindered the release of crucial funds from the Centre, citing an estimated Rs 2,600 crore stuck due to such measures. He urged that state officials should take immediate steps to align with central norms to resolve issues.

Rural Development Minister Dipika Pandey Singh countered, alleging a lack of cooperation from central ministers. Meanwhile, PDS dealers are also awaiting overdue commissions, as highlighted by BJP legislator C P Singh. The issue worsens as the state seeks additional funds from the Centre to meet these financial obligations.

(With inputs from agencies.)