Seemanchal, literally meaning the ‘End of Border’ is a new addition into the ongoing demand of ‘Regionalism’ and concept of ‘Small Statehood’ in the country. Seemanchal lies near the borders with Nepal, Bangladesh and West Bengal. Located in the north-eastern parts of Bihar, the Seemanchal area includes Purnea Division and adjoining districts. Former Union Minister and now a JD (U) leader Mohammed Taslimuddin first raised the demand of Seemanchal state in the year 1992.
Kishanganj Railway Station in Seemanchal
Sometimes referred to as the ‘Seemanchal Ka Gandhi’ by his supporters, Mohammed Taslimuddin raised the demand of creation of a new state comprising Kishanganj, Purnia, Araria, Katihar, Bhagalpur, Khagaria and Supaul. Few months back before joining the Janata Dal (United), Taslimuddin once again demaned for separate Seemancha state and he was planning to launch his own party with the name featuring Seemanchal.
While talking with a newspaper few months back, Taslimuddin said that the demand for Seemanchal receives strong approval whenever he met people and attend public meetings. Seemanchal supporters have the proposed state's map and Purnia would be our capital. Justifying his demand Taslimuddin told the region would receive more funds for development. Taslimuddin and his supporters argued that creating a state along the border would also help in curbing activities like smuggling. He said the move for Seemanchal state will start with the demand of opening of a Patna HC bench at Katihar.
A SBI Branch at Muraliganj in Seemanchal
During the early 1990s, Taslimuddin had launched a campaign for Seemanchal's creation. However, he appeared to have dropped the demand when he joined hands with RJD chief Lalu Prasad and was inducted into the ministry. Once considered the most influential Muslim leader of north Bihar, Taslimuddin quit RJD after losing Lok Sabha polls in 2009 and joined JD (U) on July 4, 2010 with a bang.
A Depleted roan in Seemanchal Region
After making his way into Janata Dal (United), Taslimuddin had not raised the issue till now. Neither any other political leader from parties like Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) or Lok Janashakti Party (LJP) is raising any demand. So, for the time being it can be said that the creation of ‘Seemanchal’ is not going to become a new state of India. However, the districts proposed for Seemanchal state are facing many developmental issues. Hence, creating a new state is not the solution, instead the supporters of the ‘Seemanchal Movement’ should raise the demand of proper development of the area before the state government and the Centre.
Typical Bamboo - grass huts in Seemanchal Region
Though an apolitical person,I also subscribe to the view of those people who demand for Seemanchal.The abject poverty and extreme backwardness of its populace has made me think like that.Lack of industrial development and other infrastructure has caused absolute sufferings for the people living around here.No political party has given any heed for the development of this area.Peace loving public of this area have suffered a lot due to negligence of all the previous Governments.
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