Last night, I was down with fever but it
went down when I heard Nitish Kumar’s speech today morning. It was an
unparalleled speech by any Bihari leader. First time I heard a leader from
Bihar is mentioning ‘per capita income’, ‘human development index’, ‘economic
policies’ and ‘industrial growth’ in his speech. Sesquipedalian leaders from
Bihar used to speak about caste, religion, equality and many more irrelevant
words. Kumar’s speech was astounding like
Bihar’s growth rate of gross state domestic product (GSDP).
ADHIKAR RALLY: SPECIAL STATUS OF BIHAR
What does “special category status” mean?
In 1969 while devising
formula for sharing central assistance among states, the Fifth Finance Commission
acting in line to the Gadgil formula, had accorded special status to three
states on the basis of harsh terrain, backwardness and social problems
prevailing in these states. Thereafter number of such states has increased
to 11. As per Gadgil formula a special category state gets preferential
treatment in federal assistance and tax breaks. The special-category states get
significant excise duty concessions, and thus help these states attract large
number of industrial units to establish manufacturing facilities within their
territory.
Adhikar Rally
Is it a power show ahead of next general
election or a serious attempt to get special status for Bihar? I am not a
political analyst but I used my common sense to get gist of this rally.
Ramlila Miadan, Delhi was selected place
for rally keeping in mind that approximately 18 % population of Delhi is from
Bihar.
Sunday, 17th March was chosen
date for really another intelligent decision. 80 % Delhi’s population involved
in service sector and enjoys Sunday as holiday.
Kumar’s speech was focused on economic
growth, education standard and future industrial revolution. Almost 58 % of
Biharis are below 25 year age who does like economic terms and education in
speeches.
I am
not judgmental here but in any case it’s a spanking signal for Biharis because
upcoming elections will be fought on the idea of development. I couldn’t forget
2005 Assembly election of Bihar when Rashtriya Janata Dal cut
my father’s MLA ticket and gave ticket to son of Don Bhagar yadav because his
caste population was more in my father’s constituency. But now ball has shifted
on development! Well played Nitish Uncle, soon I will join Politics ;).
