WHY BIHAR AND JHARKHAND SEPARATED

The Historical Roots of a Complex Division

The story of Bihar and Jharkhand's separation is a tale of history, politics, and the aspiration for self-governance. The two states, situated in the eastern part of India, were once united as one entity known as Bihar. However, decades of agitation and political maneuvering led to the creation of Jharkhand as a separate state in 2000. To understand this division, we must delve into the historical roots of the region.

A Legacy of Tribal Identity and Autonomy

The region now known as Jharkhand has historically been home to various tribal communities, including the Santhals, Mundas, and Oraons. These communities have a distinct cultural identity, language, and traditions, which set them apart from the dominant caste groups in Bihar. Over the years, these tribal communities have felt marginalized and discriminated against, fueling their desire for autonomy and self-governance.

The Rise of Political Movements and Regional Aspirations

The seeds of separation were sown in the early 20th century when political movements emerged advocating for the creation of a separate Jharkhand state. These movements were driven by tribal leaders and activists who sought to protect the rights and interests of the tribal communities. They argued that the dominance of upper-caste groups in Bihar's politics and administration prevented the tribals from realizing their full potential.

The Path to Separation: A Long and Winding Road

The movement for a separate Jharkhand state gained momentum in the 1970s and 1980s, with large-scale protests and agitations. The central government, recognizing the growing discontent, appointed several commissions to study the issue. However, no concrete steps were taken towards separation until the late 1990s. In 1998, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government announced its intention to create Jharkhand as a separate state. The decision was met with resistance from some quarters, but ultimately, Parliament passed the Bihar Reorganization Act in 2000, paving the way for the creation of Jharkhand.

Addressing Regional Imbalances and Empowering Tribal Communities

The separation of Jharkhand was seen as a necessary step to address regional imbalances and empower the tribal communities of the region. The new state was granted special provisions to promote the development of tribal languages, culture, and traditions. Additionally, the state government was given more autonomy in decision-making, allowing it to better address the specific needs and aspirations of its people.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Aftermath of Separation

The separation of Bihar and Jharkhand was not without its challenges. The division of resources, infrastructure, and administrative machinery posed significant hurdles. Moreover, the initial years of Jharkhand's statehood were marked by political instability and corruption. However, over time, the state has made progress in overcoming these challenges and is now moving towards sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Legacy and Lessons: A New Era of Cooperation and Progress

The separation of Bihar and Jharkhand has left a lasting legacy in the history of Indian federalism. It serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing regional aspirations and ensuring the empowerment of marginalized communities. While the two states have embarked on their own paths, they continue to maintain close ties, collaborating on issues of mutual interest, such as water resource management and infrastructure development. The separation has opened up new avenues for cooperation and progress, benefiting both states and their people.

FAQs:

1. What were the main reasons behind the separation of Bihar and Jharkhand?

   • The separation was driven by the desire for autonomy and self-governance among the tribal communities of Jharkhand, who felt marginalized and discriminated against in united Bihar.

2. When did the separation take place?

   • The Bihar Reorganization Act was passed in 2000, and Jharkhand was officially created as a separate state on November 15, 2000.

3. What were the challenges faced by Jharkhand in the initial years of statehood?

   • Jharkhand faced challenges such as political instability, corruption, and the division of resources and infrastructure.

4. How has the separation of Bihar and Jharkhand impacted the development of both states?

   • The separation has allowed both states to focus on their specific needs and aspirations, leading to progress in areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

5. What is the current relationship between Bihar and Jharkhand?

   • The two states maintain close ties and collaborate on issues of mutual interest, such as water resource management and infrastructure development.