Special Category Status: States Demand Revival

Ahead of the Budget session of Parliament, JD(U), YSRCP, and BJD demanded special category status for Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, respectively. Congress's Jairam Ramesh noted the TDP's silence on the issue. RJD, NDA allies, and other political leaders voiced similar demands, citing financial difficulties and past promises.

In anticipation of the upcoming Budget session of Parliament, political parties JD(U), YSRCP, and BJD have intensified their demands for special category status for Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. While Congress's Jairam Ramesh noted the surprising silence of the TDP on this matter, numerous other political factions, including RJD and NDA allies, are strongly advocating for these demands.

Leaders such as Sanjay Kumar Jha of JD(U) and Chirag Paswan from Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) have emphasized that a special financial package could be considered if special status remains unattainable. This call for reconsideration comes amid increasing financial challenges facing these states.

Jairam Ramesh remarked on X that the issue of special category status, previously promised in political manifestos, is resurfacing as a significant demand. The YSRCP remains steadfast in its demand for Andhra Pradesh, with leader Vijaisai Reddy reiterating the issue's importance and the inadequacy of the ruling TDP's response. The BJD's Sasmit Patra also highlighted Odisha's prolonged deprivation of special status, urging the central government to revisit the issue.