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Odisha's BJD Criticizes Central Government's Inaction on SCS

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 22:50 GMT by The Hans India
      Locales: Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, INDIA

Bhubaneswar, Odisha - February 15th, 2026 - The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Odisha's ruling party, today sharply criticized the central government for its continued inaction on the state's longstanding plea for Special Category Status (SCS). Speaking to media representatives, BJD spokesperson Pratap Deb reiterated the party's disappointment, labeling the central government's response as detrimental to Odisha's development prospects.

The demand for SCS isn't new. For years, the BJD has passionately argued that this designation is not merely a financial request, but a necessity for equitable growth in a state grappling with unique developmental challenges. Deb emphasized that repeated requests and prior assurances from the Union government have failed to translate into concrete action, leaving Odisha feeling overlooked and under-resourced.

A History of Disparity: Why Odisha Seeks SCS

Odisha's case for SCS stems from a combination of factors that consistently place it at a disadvantage compared to other Indian states. The state is characterized by a challenging terrain, encompassing dense forests, hilly regions, and a long coastline prone to cyclones and flooding. This geographical complexity dramatically increases the cost of infrastructure development and disaster mitigation. Furthermore, significant portions of the population reside in remote and tribal areas, facing systemic disadvantages in access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Historical underdevelopment and a large percentage of population below the poverty line contribute to a vicious cycle of disadvantage.

Special Category Status, historically, provided substantial benefits to states facing such difficulties. These included enhanced financial assistance, including a higher percentage of central funds for developmental projects, tax concessions to attract investment, and preferential treatment in resource allocation. These benefits were designed to level the playing field, enabling states like Odisha to overcome their inherent disadvantages and accelerate their economic and social progress.

The 2011 Shift and its Impact

The central government's current reluctance to grant SCS is rooted in revisions to the criteria for determining eligibility, enacted in 2011. Previously based largely on economic backwardness and social indicators, the revised framework shifted towards assessing states' fiscal performance and revenue-generating capacity. This change, the BJD argues, effectively locked out many deserving states, including Odisha, regardless of their genuine need for additional support.

"The 2011 criteria were deliberately designed to make it exceedingly difficult for any state to qualify," Deb asserted. "It's a convenient excuse to avoid addressing the legitimate concerns of states like Odisha."

Accusations of Discrimination and the Path Forward

The BJD hasn't shied away from accusing the central government of discriminatory policies. The party contends that Odisha consistently receives a smaller share of central resources compared to other states with similar or even better economic indicators. This disparity, they argue, hinders the state's ability to implement crucial development programs and improve the lives of its citizens. The party points to specific instances where central funding for key sectors like education and healthcare has fallen short of Odisha's needs, impacting the quality and accessibility of these essential services.

While the central government maintains that all states are treated equally, the BJD argues that a "one-size-fits-all" approach ignores the unique challenges faced by states like Odisha. They emphasize the need for a nuanced understanding of the state's socio-economic realities and a willingness to provide targeted support to address its specific needs.

Beyond Financial Aid: The Broader Implications

The BJD's pursuit of SCS isn't solely about financial assistance. They believe that the designation would also act as a catalyst for attracting private investment, boosting tourism, and creating employment opportunities. The SCS tag signals a commitment to development, potentially making Odisha a more attractive destination for businesses looking to expand their operations.

Deb concluded by reaffirming the BJD's unwavering commitment to fighting for SCS. "We will continue to raise this issue at every forum and will not rest until justice is done to the people of Odisha," he declared. The party intends to intensify its lobbying efforts in Delhi, seeking a meeting with senior central government officials to present a compelling case for Odisha's inclusion under the Special Category Status framework. The coming months will likely see a continued political battle over this critical issue, with Odisha's future development hanging in the balance.