All-Party Meeting Sets Stage for Budget Session, Special Status Demands Highlighted
With the Budget Session of Parliament commencing tomorrow, both the ruling alliance and the Opposition have laid out their demands at the customary all-party meeting held today. This significant gathering, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, showcased a range of political priorities and strategic requests.
Key Points from the Meeting:
JD(U) Demands Special Status for Bihar:
- The Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] leader highlighted the pressing need for special category status for Bihar.
- Emphasized that this status would facilitate greater central assistance and help bridge the state’s developmental gaps.
YSRCP Calls for Special Status for Andhra Pradesh:
- The Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) reiterated its demand for special category status for Andhra Pradesh.
- Stressed that the status is essential for addressing financial and infrastructural challenges post-bifurcation.
TDP’s Uncharacteristic Silence:
- In a surprising move, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which has historically championed the cause of special status for Andhra Pradesh, remained silent on the issue.
- This silence was noted by Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, who found it unusual given the TDP’s past advocacy.
Congress Reaction:
- Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, present at the meeting, remarked on the demands made and pointed out the TDP’s silence.
- In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “In today’s all-party meeting of floor leaders chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the JD(U) leader demanded special category status for Bihar. The YSRCP leader demanded special category status for Andhra Pradesh. Strangely, the TDP leader kept quiet on the matter.”
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Meeting Overview:
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the discussion, ensuring that all voices were heard and the agenda for the Budget Session was set.
- Emphasized the need for a constructive and collaborative session to address national challenges.
As the Budget Session begins, the focus will be on how these demands, especially for special category status, are addressed by the government. The dynamics between the ruling alliance and the Opposition will play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of this session.
