JMM demands special state status, highlights challenges before 16th Finance Commission

Ranchi: Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya on Wednesday urged the central government to grant special category status to Jharkhand, citing the state’s vast mineral wealth and unique socio-economic challenges.

During a press conference, Bhattacharya welcomed the members of the 16th Finance Commission and highlighted Jharkhand’s key role as the leading mineral producer in India. He noted that the state’s railway divisions, including Dhanbad and Chakradharpur, are among the highest revenue-generating zones, underscoring Jharkhand’s contribution to the national economy.

Bhattacharya elaborated on the geographical challenges faced by the state, where most villages lie on hill slopes or between hills, surrounded by rich forest, agricultural, mineral, and medicinal resources. He stressed that displacement caused by mining operations has led to social disruption and demographic imbalances, with many workers migrating to other states in search of employment.

He also pointed to environmental and health concerns linked to mining activities, mentioning radiation exposure in Jadugoda due to uranium mining and pollution-induced diseases in western Singhbhum.

Despite these challenges, Bhattacharya said Jharkhand remains committed to the nation’s progress and demanded that the state be granted special status under Article 16 of the Constitution. He criticized the lack of sufficient railway connectivity, noting that premium trains like the Rajdhani and Shatabdi rarely serve Jharkhand adequately.

Bhattacharya called for a revised funding structure in which the central government covers at least 75 percent of development project costs, with Jharkhand bearing the remaining 25 percent, similar to arrangements for northeastern states.

He also highlighted ongoing government efforts to improve education and social security in remote areas but stressed the need for greater investment and attention.

Concluding his remarks, Bhattacharya appealed to the Finance Commission to consider Jharkhand’s distinct realities and ensure the state receives the special category status and financial support necessary for balanced and sustainable development.