Bihar CM Nitish Kumar recently asserted that he had not given up the demand for grant of special status to Bihar since he first raised the issue 13 years ago.

He also criticised the RJD for questioning his ‘silence’ after the TDP pulled out of the NDA seeking similar benefits for Andhra Pradesh.

He stated, “I had written to the then prime minister for a special status to Bihar in 2005, shortly after assuming power in the state. A year later, we got a resolution passed in the state assembly to the effect. Since then, the demand has been raised by us relentlessly and I have not strayed for even a second. I'm amused to see those who were never concerned about the issue have suddenly started questioning my silence.”

He also indicated that the issue of special status for Bihar would be raised before the 15^th Finance Commission as well.

Kumar further added, “Special status is a need for Bihar. We will work towards ensuring that it is fulfilled. But we are not going to issue statements about the matter every now and then. We have always placed interests of the voters above their votes, unlike our detractors.”