Nitish Kumar's Cryptic Response on Bihar's Special Category Status

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar responded ambiguously to the Centre's denial of special category status for Bihar. Despite JD(U)'s fresh demands, the Union government cited a 2012 inter-ministerial report deeming Bihar ineligible. Opposition leaders accused Kumar of failing the state, suggesting he should resign.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar faced a barrage of questions from journalists on Tuesday regarding the Union government's refusal to grant special category status to the state. Kumar, a key ally of the ruling NDA, remained ambiguous, telling reporters, 'You will get to know all things slowly, and slowly.'

The JD(U) had earlier passed a resolution demanding special status, especially after the BJP's reduced majority in the Lok Sabha election. However, the Centre, citing a 2012 inter-ministerial report, dismissed Bihar's claims for special consideration.

Opposition leaders, including Kumar's arch-rival Lalu Prasad, criticized him, urging his resignation over the perceived failure to secure benefits for Bihar. The history of the demand dates back to 2000, intensifying under Kumar's leadership in 2010.