BJP demands second language status for Bengali in J'khand

Ranchi, Nov 14 (UNI) In the wake of the Madhu Koda-led UPA government's recent decision to recognise Urdu as second official language in Jharkhand, the BJP today demanded the same status for the Bengali in the state.

The literature cell of the party's state unit made mockery over the second language status accorded to Urdu, saying since undivided Bihar the language was identified in that category only.

President of the literature cell Prem Mittal, justifying them demand, said about 42 per cent of the total population in Jharkhand either speak Bengali or understand it and hence the government should make consideration of the appeal.

Mr Mittal urged the UPA government to make announcement to this effect during the week-long sixth foundation of the state beginning tomorrow.

He said the erstwhile Arjun Munda-led NDA government had taken initiative in this regard but the government fell before accomplishing the commitment.

Mr Mittal took part in a demonstration staged by the Bengali Association which took to an agitation with the same agenda.

UNI PRS SJC VD RK1810