Nitish Kumar Says Centre Interfering In States’ Borrowing

Patna:

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday alleged that poor states have been being prevented by the Narendra Modi authorities on the Centre from marshalling sources by way of borrowing. 

The JD(U) chief, who snapped ties with the BJP lower than six months in the past, expressed dismay on the “interference” from the Centre which, he asserted, was “by no means seen earlier than”.

He was replying to queries from journalists about expectations from the upcoming Union funds.

“What can one anticipate,” quipped Kumar, stating that his demand for better central help and particular standing to Bihar was by no means met.

Requested whether or not issues have modified for the more severe since his exit from the ruling alliance on the Centre, Kumar didn’t give a direct reply however mentioned, “They weren’t serving to the state once we have been collectively. They’re doing the identical now. I’m wondering how they consider growing the nation with out growing the poorer states.” 

“They’re hardly doing something besides propaganda (‘prachar prasar’). Their consideration is proscribed to solely these locations the place they’re eyeing some political profit. They appear to be overestimating their political positive factors, although,” mentioned the longest-serving CM of Bihar, who has been calling for a united opposition to tackle the BJP within the Lok Sabha polls subsequent yr.

“Poor states like us are left to fend for themselves. Earlier, we used to make up for lack of central assist by borrowing. That, too, has been stalled. By no means have we seen one of these interference,” added Kumar.

Though he didn’t elaborate, the chief minister made the assertion apparently referring to the proposed cap on states’ borrowing to three.5 per cent of GDP from the following fiscal.

Replying to a different question, the previous railway minister reiterated that the division’s separate funds needs to be revived.

“Railway funds was such a large affair. Members in each Homes of Parliament devoted extra time debating it than the overall funds. In a approach, fashionable Indian financial system has its roots in Railways, which have been launched by the British,” he mentioned.

(Aside from the headline, this story has not been edited by String Reveals workers and is revealed from a syndicated feed.)