A five-member committee submits its findings on the condition of minorities in Bihar, with recommendations for addressing social, economic, and educational disparities.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – A comprehensive report on the social, economic, and educational conditions of minorities in Bihar has been submitted to the state’s Minority Welfare Department. The report, prepared by a five-member committee, was handed over to the Minister of Minority Affairs, Zaman Khan, on Friday.
The committee, formed by the Minority Welfare Department, was tasked with reviewing the status of minorities in the state based on data from the caste-based census conducted in 2022. The committee comprised retired senior officers of Bihar, including Arshad Aziz, Qaiser Sultan, Akhlaq Ahmed, Naushad Ahmed, and Muhammad Hashim Khan. They were supported by Father Jos, Director of Bihar Dalit Vikas Samiti, Sardar Terlochan Singh, and Captain Dilip Kumar, former Vice President of the Bihar State Minority Commission.
Detailing data on the social, economic, and educational status of minorities in Bihar, the report reviews the participation and representation of minorities at various levels of education, from primary school to university, and compares their situation with other sections of society. The report also addresses the causes of the backwardness of minorities and suggests measures to overcome these challenges.
Committee member Arshad Aziz explained, “The report provides a comprehensive review of the conditions faced by linguistic and religious minorities in Bihar. However, it cannot be made public at this stage. The government will first examine the findings and decide on the appropriate actions.”
Upon receiving the report, Minister of Minority Affairs Zaman Khan assured that the state government would take concrete steps to improve the situation of minorities based on the committee’s recommendations. “This report is an important step towards addressing the issues faced by minorities in Bihar. The Nitish government has already made significant efforts for the development of minorities, and this report will guide us in planning further actions,” Khan stated.
He emphasised that the caste-based census data served as the foundation for the report and would be instrumental in formulating long-term strategies for the development of minorities. “We are committed to taking necessary steps based on this report. The formation of the Bihar State Minority Commission and Urdu Advisory Committee is also underway, and you will see results soon,” Khan added.
The submission of this report marks a significant step in the state government’s efforts to address the disparities faced by minorities. As the government reviews the findings, further action plans and development strategies are expected to be rolled out in the near future, aiming to improve the social, economic, and educational conditions of minorities across Bihar.