#Rashtriya Janata Dal

[todayworldnews2k21]

Land-for-jobs case: CBI gets more time to file supplementary charge sheet

Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on June 1 granted the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) more time to file a supplementary charge sheet in the alleged land-for-jobs scam. Former Union Railways Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav’s daughter RJD MP Misa Bharti attended the hearing. Special judge Geetanjali Goel on June 1 granted more time to the CBI after being informed that some new facts had to be included.…

[bhaskarlive]

Ex-Bihar minister Shyam Rajak quits RJD, says he felt ‘cheated’

In a big blow to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), former Bihar Cabinet minister and RJD national General Secretary Shyam Rajak resigned from the primary membership of the party on Thursday.

Rajak submitted his resignation to RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, ending his four-year association with the party.

Source: bhaskarlive.in

[townpostin]

RJD to Contest in All Five Divisions of Jharkhand, Says Suresh Paswan

Former Minister Criticizes Nitish Government and Predicts Downfall of NDA Former minister and senior vice president of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Suresh Paswan, announced that the party will field candidates in all five divisions of Jharkhand, with preparations already underway. JAMSHEDPUR – Speaking to media at Jamshedpur Circuit House on Sunday, former minister Suresh Paswan revealed that…

[secretnewz987]

Bihar's Political Landscape: A Closer Look at 'Modi ka Parivar' and Beyond

In the colorful realm of Indian politics, the battleground of Bihar has witnessed a fascinating exchange of jibes and campaigns. One such instance unfolded when the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader, Lalu Prasad, aimed a sharp retort at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, triggering the BJP's "Modi ka parivar (Modi's family)" campaign. However, a closer inspection of Bihar's political scenario reveals a different narrative, one where familial ties intertwine seamlessly with political ambitions.

With the recent unveiling of candidates for the Lok Sabha elections, it becomes evident that the BJP-led coalition, known for its criticism of dynastic politics, has itself embraced familial legacies. Out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has fielded 11 candidates hailing from political dynasties.

This revelation prompted the RJD to question the essence of "Modi ka parivar," highlighting the irony of the situation. As spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari remarked, the RJD's stance remains clear: if a lawyer's child can choose to practice law, why should the children of politicians be deprived of following their parents' footsteps?

Among the NDA's contenders from political families, notable names include Ashok Yadav, son of sitting Madhubani MP Hukumdev Narayan Yadav; Sanjay Jaiswal, son of former MP Madan Jaiswal; Sushil Kumar Singh, son of ex-MP Ram Naresh Singh; and Vivek Thakur, son of former MP C P Thakur.

Acknowledging the paradox, a BJP leader conceded that the NDA must tread cautiously on the "parivarvaad" plank, given their own candidates' backgrounds.

Similarly, the Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) and the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) also present a roster of candidates with familial ties to politics. Despite initial concerns about nepotism, JD(U) leaders assert that performance will ultimately determine success, hinting at a shift in voter priorities.

The "dynasty quotient" is particularly high in the LJP, with four out of five candidates linked to political families. Chirag Paswan, son of former Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, leads the pack, emphasizing that democratic decisions rest in the hands of the electorate.

Meanwhile, the "INDIA bloc," comprising the RJD, Congress, and Left, unveils its own set of political legacies. Lalu's daughters, Misa Bharti and Rohini Acharya, along with other prominent scions, illustrate the depth of familial influence in Bihar's electoral landscape.

As Bihar braces for the electoral showdown, the BJP's "Modi ka parivar" campaign faces scrutiny amidst the backdrop of political familialism. In this vibrant tapestry of democracy, the intertwining threads of family and politics continue to shape the narrative of Bihar's political journey.

[mapsontheweb]

A more detailed Indian election results.

by u/Greedy-Rate-349

Bharatiya Janata party loses its majority after 10 years and has to depend on allies to form a government which wasn't predicted by any exit polls which were claiming that BJP will alone get over 350 seats and thus the result has been celebrated by the opposition despite its defeat and they also managed to capture many seats on BJP's strongholds specifically in UP

Translations

Bharatiya Janata party - Hindi for Indian people's party

Telugu Desam Party -Telugu for Party of the Telugu Lands

Janata dal United -Hindi for People's party United

Trinamool Congress - Bengali for Grassroots Congress

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam - Tamil for Dravidian progressive alliance

Samajwadi party -Hindi for Socialist party

Other parties include a long list as well some major NDA allies were - Lok Janshakti party(Ram Vilas), Shiv Sena, National Congress party, Janata dal (secular), Rashtriya lok dal,Asom Gana Parishad

Other major INDIA parties include- Rashtriya Janata dal Shiv sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Nationalist Congress party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) Communist party of India (Marxist) Communist party of India Communist party of India (Marxist Leninist) Liberation Aam Aadmi party Jammu Kashmir National Conference Jharkhand Mukti Morcha

Also two unaligned Chandrashekhar Azad of the Azad Samajwadi party (Kanshiram) and Pappu Yadav have announced that they will support INDIA bloc.

Parties like JDU and TDP have a history of love hate relationship with NDA and there is speculation that they might jump ship that can topple BJP, however no such news has come forward and we will have to see what comes next

[mohit66211]

Bharat Bandh Live Updates Today: Bharat Bandh Today As Opposition, Dalit Groups Protest Top Court's Quota Order

Congress leader Tika Ram Jully, Rajasthan's Leader of the Opposition, has accused the ruling BJP of trying to "weaken" the reservation system.

Bharat Bandh Live Updates Today:  A 'Bharat bandh' to protest the Supreme Court's 'quota within a quota' decision about reservations in state government jobs and colleges for SC and ST candidates was held in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and other states on Wednesday.

Bharat Bandh Live Updates Today: The strike was called by two dozen Dalit and Adivasi groups - including the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti - and backed by political parties, including Bihar's Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Bahujan Samaj Party in Madhya Pradesh.

[hindustanmorning]

Congress accused BJP of misleading advertising to Election Commission

Congress lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), claiming that the party shared a deceptive advertisement on social media that included inaccurate details about the leaders of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Indian National Congress (INC), and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The Congress asserted that the advertisement breached the…

[sablocalhai]

Politics of Bihar?

Bihar, a state in eastern India, has a vibrant and dynamic political landscape, characterized by a mix of traditional and modern political forces. The state's political scene has been shaped by a variety of factors, including its historical heritage, social demographics, and economic conditions.

Historical Context

Bihar Movement: Bihar has a long history of political activism, dating back to the Bihar Movement of the 1970s, which was a major turning point in the state's politics.

Social and Economic Factors: Bihar's political landscape has also been influenced by social and economic factors, such as caste, class, and regionalism.

Political Parties

Regional Parties: Bihar has a strong tradition of regional political parties, with the Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) being the two most prominent.

National Parties: National parties like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress also have a significant presence in Bihar.

Coalition Governments: Bihar has often seen coalition governments, with different political parties forming alliances to govern the state.

Political Issues

Caste Politics: Caste continues to play a significant role in Bihar's politics, with many political parties relying on caste-based vote banks.

Development: Bihar has faced challenges in terms of development, and addressing issues like poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure development are key priorities for the state's political leaders.

Crime: Crime, particularly violent crime, is a major concern in Bihar. The state government has implemented various measures to address this issue.

Political Future

Bihar's political future is likely to be shaped by a variety of factors, including the performance of the current government, the rise of new political parties, and changes in the state's socio-economic conditions. The state's political landscape is likely to remain dynamic and competitive for the foreseeable future.

Bihar's politics is a complex and fascinating subject, reflecting the state's rich history, cultural diversity, and socio-economic challenges. The state's political leaders continue to grapple with issues such as development, social justice, and crime, while also navigating the complexities of coalition politics.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Paromita Das GG News Bureau New Delhi, 23rd October. In the run-up to the highly anticipated Jharkhand Assembly elections, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has officially released its first list of 35 candidates. Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the party’s stalwart, will once again contest from the Barhait constituency, while the Soren family’s prominence in state politics is underscored by the candidacies of his wife, Kalpana Soren, from Gandey, and his brother, Basant Soren, from Dumka. This high-profile release signals the JMM’s intent to consolidate power and build upon its previous electoral successes, positioning the family as the backbone of its leadership strategy. Alongside the Soren family members, the list features a mix of seasoned politicians and newer faces, carefully selected to reflect the party’s wide-ranging appeal across Jharkhand’s diverse constituencies. The JMM has fielded Ravindranath Mahto from Nala, M.T. Raja from Rajmahal, Dhananjay Soren from Boriya, and Stephen Marandi from Maheshpur, all of whom bring considerable experience to the table. Additionally, candidates like Uday Shankar Singh from Sarath, Sudiway Kumar from Giridih, and Alok Soren from Shikaripara are expected to strengthen the party’s outreach in their respective regions. The ruling JMM, under Hemant Soren’s leadership, is preparing to defend its majority in the 81-member assembly, where elections will be held in two phases—on November 13 and 20, with the vote count scheduled for November 23. This election is particularly significant, as it will not only test the JMM’s popularity but will also shape Jharkhand’s political future amidst shifting alliances and emerging opposition challenges. JMM’s Strategic Candidate Selections: Family at the Core One of the most notable aspects of the JMM’s list is its reliance on the Soren family’s continued dominance in Jharkhand politics. Hemant Soren, who has served as Chief Minister since 2019, is the face of the party and is seeking re-election from Barhait, a constituency he has successfully represented in previous elections. His leadership has been central to the JMM’s success in navigating the complexities of coalition politics in the state, particularly with its alliance partners, the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Kalpana Soren, Hemant’s wife, will be contesting from Gandey, marking her formal entry into electoral politics. Her candidacy represents a clear attempt by the JMM to further consolidate the Soren family’s grip on key constituencies, while also appealing to women voters. Meanwhile, Basant Soren, the Chief Minister’s brother, will again contest from Dumka, a seat of symbolic and strategic importance for the party. His presence in the electoral fray underscores the JMM’s intent to maintain its influence in the tribal heartland of Jharkhand, where the party draws much of its support. The inclusion of family members at the forefront of the JMM’s campaign is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it reinforces the legacy of the Soren family in Jharkhand’s political landscape, evoking the legacy of Shibu Soren, the party’s founder and a towering figure in state politics. On the other hand, it exposes the JMM to criticism of dynastic politics, a charge that opposition parties are likely to leverage as they seek to weaken the ruling party’s appeal. Balancing Veteran Leaders and New Faces Beyond the Soren family, the JMM’s candidate list strikes a balance between veteran politicians and new contenders. For example, Ravindranath Mahto, the sitting speaker of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, has been fielded from Nala. His role as a senior leader within the JMM and his experience in managing legislative affairs make him a crucial player in the party’s election strategy. The inclusion of newer candidates like Alok Soren (Shikaripara) and Deepak Birua (Chaibasa) signals the JMM’s attempt to refresh its ranks and appeal to younger voters. By putting forward a mix of seasoned leaders and

emerging faces, the party aims to present itself as both stable and adaptive, capable of representing the evolving aspirations of the state’s electorate. Opposition’s Response: Congress and RJD Lineup Meanwhile, the JMM’s coalition partners, the Congress and RJD, have also revealed their initial lists of candidates. The Congress, fielding 21 candidates, is banking on experienced politicians like Irfan Ansari from Jamtara and Pradeep Yadav from Poraiyahat, while also positioning newer figures such as Deepika Pandey Singh from Mahagama. The RJD, contesting six seats as part of the coalition agreement, has named candidates including Suresh Paswan (Deoghar) and Sanjay Prasad Yadav (Godda), with hopes of securing vital constituencies that will support the broader alliance. The combined strength of the JMM-Congress-RJD alliance poses a formidable challenge to the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which will need to counter the ruling alliance’s consolidated base of tribal, rural, and minority voters. However, internal dynamics and the ability of these parties to cooperate seamlessly during the campaign will be key to their success. Challenges Ahead for the JMM and Hemant Soren Despite the strength of the JMM’s candidate list and its alliance with the Congress and RJD, the party faces several challenges as it seeks re-election. Governance issues, economic concerns, and rural distress—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic—are likely to dominate the campaign discourse. Opposition parties, particularly the BJP, will seek to capitalize on any perceived gaps in the Soren administration’s performance, particularly in areas like employment generation, infrastructure development, and management of tribal welfare programs. The BJP, which has a significant support base in Jharkhand, will undoubtedly target the JMM’s reliance on dynastic politics, as well as the party’s performance in its five-year tenure. The Soren government’s handling of law and order issues, as well as its relationship with the central government, will also be key factors that could influence voter sentiment. Conclusion: A High-Stakes Election for JMM The release of the JMM’s candidate list marks the beginning of a high-stakes election campaign that will determine the future trajectory of Jharkhand politics. The party’s decision to rely heavily on the Soren family, combined with its strategic mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces, reflects a calculated effort to secure a majority in the upcoming assembly elections. However, the road to victory will not be easy. The JMM will need to navigate the challenges posed by its rivals, while also addressing voter concerns about governance and development. In this context, Hemant Soren’s leadership and the performance of his government will be scrutinized closely, and the party’s ability to maintain its tribal base while expanding its appeal to other sections of the electorate will be critical. Can the JMM Overcome the Dynastic Critique? While, the JMM has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the upcoming elections, the party must carefully manage the perception of dynastic politics. Hemant Soren’s leadership is widely respected, but the over-reliance on family members could alienate sections of the electorate that view this as a sign of political nepotism. To counter this, the JMM will need to focus on its achievements in governance, emphasizing economic development, tribal welfare, and regional pride. Moreover, the party’s alliance with the Congress and RJD, while formidable, must remain cohesive throughout the campaign. A united front against the BJP will be essential for the JMM to retain its hold on power in Jharkhand, a state known for its complex political landscape and shifting voter alliances. Ultimately, the JMM’s electoral fate will rest on its ability to transcend the family-centric narrative and present itself as a party of inclusive governance and progressive policies, appealing to the diverse and dynamic electorate of Jharkhand.

  The post JMM Rolls Out Soren Family Heavyweights for High-Stakes Jharkhand Polls appeared first on Global Governance News- Asia's First Bilingual News portal for Global News and Updates. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Paromita Das GG News Bureau New Delhi, 23rd October. In the run-up to the highly anticipated Jharkhand Assembly elections, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has officially released its first list of 35 candidates. Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the party’s stalwart, will once again contest from the Barhait constituency, while the Soren family’s prominence in state politics is underscored by the candidacies of his wife, Kalpana Soren, from Gandey, and his brother, Basant Soren, from Dumka. This high-profile release signals the JMM’s intent to consolidate power and build upon its previous electoral successes, positioning the family as the backbone of its leadership strategy. Alongside the Soren family members, the list features a mix of seasoned politicians and newer faces, carefully selected to reflect the party’s wide-ranging appeal across Jharkhand’s diverse constituencies. The JMM has fielded Ravindranath Mahto from Nala, M.T. Raja from Rajmahal, Dhananjay Soren from Boriya, and Stephen Marandi from Maheshpur, all of whom bring considerable experience to the table. Additionally, candidates like Uday Shankar Singh from Sarath, Sudiway Kumar from Giridih, and Alok Soren from Shikaripara are expected to strengthen the party’s outreach in their respective regions. The ruling JMM, under Hemant Soren’s leadership, is preparing to defend its majority in the 81-member assembly, where elections will be held in two phases—on November 13 and 20, with the vote count scheduled for November 23. This election is particularly significant, as it will not only test the JMM’s popularity but will also shape Jharkhand’s political future amidst shifting alliances and emerging opposition challenges. JMM’s Strategic Candidate Selections: Family at the Core One of the most notable aspects of the JMM’s list is its reliance on the Soren family’s continued dominance in Jharkhand politics. Hemant Soren, who has served as Chief Minister since 2019, is the face of the party and is seeking re-election from Barhait, a constituency he has successfully represented in previous elections. His leadership has been central to the JMM’s success in navigating the complexities of coalition politics in the state, particularly with its alliance partners, the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Kalpana Soren, Hemant’s wife, will be contesting from Gandey, marking her formal entry into electoral politics. Her candidacy represents a clear attempt by the JMM to further consolidate the Soren family’s grip on key constituencies, while also appealing to women voters. Meanwhile, Basant Soren, the Chief Minister’s brother, will again contest from Dumka, a seat of symbolic and strategic importance for the party. His presence in the electoral fray underscores the JMM’s intent to maintain its influence in the tribal heartland of Jharkhand, where the party draws much of its support. The inclusion of family members at the forefront of the JMM’s campaign is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it reinforces the legacy of the Soren family in Jharkhand’s political landscape, evoking the legacy of Shibu Soren, the party’s founder and a towering figure in state politics. On the other hand, it exposes the JMM to criticism of dynastic politics, a charge that opposition parties are likely to leverage as they seek to weaken the ruling party’s appeal. Balancing Veteran Leaders and New Faces Beyond the Soren family, the JMM’s candidate list strikes a balance between veteran politicians and new contenders. For example, Ravindranath Mahto, the sitting speaker of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, has been fielded from Nala. His role as a senior leader within the JMM and his experience in managing legislative affairs make him a crucial player in the party’s election strategy. The inclusion of newer candidates like Alok Soren (Shikaripara) and Deepak Birua (Chaibasa) signals the JMM’s attempt to refresh its ranks and appeal to younger voters. By putting forward a mix of seasoned leaders and

emerging faces, the party aims to present itself as both stable and adaptive, capable of representing the evolving aspirations of the state’s electorate. Opposition’s Response: Congress and RJD Lineup Meanwhile, the JMM’s coalition partners, the Congress and RJD, have also revealed their initial lists of candidates. The Congress, fielding 21 candidates, is banking on experienced politicians like Irfan Ansari from Jamtara and Pradeep Yadav from Poraiyahat, while also positioning newer figures such as Deepika Pandey Singh from Mahagama. The RJD, contesting six seats as part of the coalition agreement, has named candidates including Suresh Paswan (Deoghar) and Sanjay Prasad Yadav (Godda), with hopes of securing vital constituencies that will support the broader alliance. The combined strength of the JMM-Congress-RJD alliance poses a formidable challenge to the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which will need to counter the ruling alliance’s consolidated base of tribal, rural, and minority voters. However, internal dynamics and the ability of these parties to cooperate seamlessly during the campaign will be key to their success. Challenges Ahead for the JMM and Hemant Soren Despite the strength of the JMM’s candidate list and its alliance with the Congress and RJD, the party faces several challenges as it seeks re-election. Governance issues, economic concerns, and rural distress—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic—are likely to dominate the campaign discourse. Opposition parties, particularly the BJP, will seek to capitalize on any perceived gaps in the Soren administration’s performance, particularly in areas like employment generation, infrastructure development, and management of tribal welfare programs. The BJP, which has a significant support base in Jharkhand, will undoubtedly target the JMM’s reliance on dynastic politics, as well as the party’s performance in its five-year tenure. The Soren government’s handling of law and order issues, as well as its relationship with the central government, will also be key factors that could influence voter sentiment. Conclusion: A High-Stakes Election for JMM The release of the JMM’s candidate list marks the beginning of a high-stakes election campaign that will determine the future trajectory of Jharkhand politics. The party’s decision to rely heavily on the Soren family, combined with its strategic mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces, reflects a calculated effort to secure a majority in the upcoming assembly elections. However, the road to victory will not be easy. The JMM will need to navigate the challenges posed by its rivals, while also addressing voter concerns about governance and development. In this context, Hemant Soren’s leadership and the performance of his government will be scrutinized closely, and the party’s ability to maintain its tribal base while expanding its appeal to other sections of the electorate will be critical. Can the JMM Overcome the Dynastic Critique? While, the JMM has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the upcoming elections, the party must carefully manage the perception of dynastic politics. Hemant Soren’s leadership is widely respected, but the over-reliance on family members could alienate sections of the electorate that view this as a sign of political nepotism. To counter this, the JMM will need to focus on its achievements in governance, emphasizing economic development, tribal welfare, and regional pride. Moreover, the party’s alliance with the Congress and RJD, while formidable, must remain cohesive throughout the campaign. A united front against the BJP will be essential for the JMM to retain its hold on power in Jharkhand, a state known for its complex political landscape and shifting voter alliances. Ultimately, the JMM’s electoral fate will rest on its ability to transcend the family-centric narrative and present itself as a party of inclusive governance and progressive policies, appealing to the diverse and dynamic electorate of Jharkhand.

  The post JMM Rolls Out Soren Family Heavyweights for High-Stakes Jharkhand Polls appeared first on Global Governance News- Asia's First Bilingual News portal for Global News and Updates. [ad_2] Source link

[tfgadgets]

ED arrests IAS officer Sanjeev Hans, ex-RJD MLA Gulab Yadav in laundering case

Security personnel during the Enforcement Directorate’s raid at Vidyut Bhawan as part of a money laundering investigation against Bihar-cadre IAS officer Sanjeev Hans, in Patna, on July 16, 2024. | Photo Credit: PTI The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday (October 18, 2024) arrested Bihar IAS officer Sanjeev Hans and former Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Gulab Yadav in a money laundering…

[todayworldnews2k21]

Badminton, Bicycles & More: 5 Things To Know About Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren

It’s election season in Jharkhand, where Chief Minister Hemant Soren is looking to retain power in alliance with the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The election caps a chaotic year for the state — Soren was arrested in January in a money laundering case stemming from alleged land fraud. When he was released in June, his substitute CM — Champai Soren — was asked to resign, a move…

[bhaskarlive]

RJD to support Bharat Bandh on Aug 21

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has announced its support for the Bharat Bandh scheduled on August 21 which has been called by the Aarakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti.

This bandh call has been given in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling concerning reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Source: bhaskarlive.in

[indiaepost]

This Budget is only for corporate sector: RJD

 Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Tuesday criticised the Central government over the Budget, saying allocating Rs 26, 000 crore to Bihar is not for the common people but for the corporate sector. “This budget is only for the corporate sector. The Finance Minister has not provided any idea of how the Centre would create jobs for unemployed youth. She has not addressed the issues of youth, farmers,…

[livewellnews]

BJP Prioritizes Ideology Over National Interest: Opposition Reacts to Lifting Ban on Government Employees in RSS

The recent central government order lifting the long-standing ban on government employees participating in RSS activities has ignited a political firestorm. Ahead of the Budget Session of the Lok Sabha, this move has been met with sharp criticism from opposition parties, while the RSS and BJP have staunchly defended it.

The Controversial Order

Earlier this month, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pension issued an order lifting the ban on government employees engaging in RSS activities. This ban, initially imposed in 1966, was deemed “unconstitutional” by the RSS and BJP, who argue that it should never have been implemented.

Silence from Allies

Allies such as the Janata Dal (United) and Rashtriya Lok Dal have remained silent on the matter. JD(U) national spokesperson K C Tyagi refused to comment, while RLD national spokesperson Mohammad Islam indicated he would discuss the issue within the party before making any statements.

Opposition’s Outcry

The opposition, however, has not held back. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media to highlight the order, pointing out the historical context of the ban, which was reinforced in 1966 despite assurances from the RSS after Gandhi’s assassination. Ramesh criticized the government, noting the recent strain in relations between the Modi administration and the RSS.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the order, stating it threatens India’s integrity and unity. He emphasized that the RSS has historically refused to accept the Constitution, national flag, and national anthem, making it incompatible with civil service duties.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed concerns about the potential bias in government agencies, stating that the order allows officials to overtly display their RSS affiliations. She criticized the BJP for prioritizing ideological interests over national interests.

Trinamool Congress MP Derek O’Brien voiced his disappointment, while BSP president Mayawati accused the government of appeasing the RSS for political gains, calling the order politically motivated and against national interests.

Defending the Decision

In contrast, the RSS and BJP defended the lifting of the ban. RSS publicity in-charge Sunil Ambekar argued that the Sangh has been a constructive force in nation-building and disaster response, making the ban unjustified. He claimed that the decision strengthens India’s democratic system.

BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya echoed these sentiments, calling the original 1966 ban unconstitutional. He highlighted the historical context of the ban following a massive anti-cow-slaughter protest and noted that even Indira Gandhi had considered lifting the ban in 1977 for political support.

Conclusion

As the debate rages on, the central government’s decision to lift the ban on government employees participating in RSS activities continues to polarize political opinions. While the RSS and BJP see it as a correction of historical wrongs, the opposition views it as a dangerous blending of state and ideology that undermines national interests.

[trustednewstribune]

Centre Rules Out Special Status For Bihar, Lalu Yadav's Party Takes A Swipe

The Centre has ruled out any plan to give a special category status to Bihar, a core demand by its key ally, the Janata Dal (United), prompting the Rashtriya Janata Dal to take a swipe at JDU leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Ramprit Mandal, JDU MP from Bihar's Jhanjharpur, had asked the Finance Ministry if the government has a plan to provide special status to Bihar and other most backward states to promote economic growth and industrialisation.

In a written response, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said "case for Special Category Status for Bihar is not made out".

"The Special Category Status for plan assistance was granted in the past by the National Development Council (NDC) to some States that were characterized by a number of features necessitating special consideration. These features included (i) hilly and difficult terrain, (ii) low population density and/or sizeable share of tribal population, (iii) strategic location along borders with neighbouring countries, (iv) economic and infrastructural backwardness and (v) non-viable nature of State finances," the reply stated. "Earlier, the request of Bihar for Special Category Status was considered by an Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) which submitted its Report on 30th March, 2012. The IMG came to the finding that based on existing NDC criteria, the case for Special Category Status for Bihar is not made out," it added.

A special status ensures more central support to a backward state to expedite its growth. While the Constitution does not provide for a special status for any state, it was introduced on the recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission in 1969. Among the states that have received a special status so far are Jammu and Kashmir (now a Union Territory), Noreastern states and hill states such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

A state with a special category status gets more funding support from the Central in the Union government's schemes and several concessions in taxes.

A special status for Bihar has been a longstanding demand of the JDU. With the BJP falling short of a majority in this election and tying up with JDU, TDP and other parties to cobble up the magic figure, the Nitish Kumar-led party was expected to push hard for its core demand. The JDU also raised this demand at an all-party meeting before the budget session.

JDU MP Sanjay Kumar Jha said the demand for a special state status for Bihar has been a priority for the JDU. "Bihar should get the status of a special state, this has been the demand of our party since the beginning. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has held big rallies for this demand. If the government feels that there is a problem in doing this, then we have demanded a special package for Bihar," he said, according to a PTI report.

With the Centre making it clear that it has no plan to grant a special status, Bihar's main Opposition RJD has hit out at the JDU, which is ruling the state in alliance with BJP. "Nitish Kumar and JDU leaders must enjoy the fruits of power at the Centre and continue their drama politics on special status," the RJD said in a post on X.

A source in the government said that the Special Category Status issue was first addressed in the National Development Council meeting in 1969. "During this meeting, the D R Gadgil Committee introduced a formula to allocate Central Assistance for state plans in India. Prior to this, there was no specific formula for fund distribution to States, and grants were given on a scheme basis. The Gadgil Formula, approved by the NDC, prioritized special category States such as Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, and Nagaland, ensuring their needs were addressed first from the pool of Central assistance."

The Special Category status concept was introduced by the 5th Finance Commission in 1969 recognising historical disadvantages of certain regions, the source said.

"Until the 2014-2015 fiscal year, the 11 States with Special Category Status benefited from various advantages and incentives. However, following the dissolution of the Planning Commission and the formation of the NITI Aayog in 2014, the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission were implemented, leading to the discontinuation of Gadgil Formula-based grants. Instead, the devolution from the divisible pool to all States was increased from 32% to 42%," the source added.