Former Chief Minister of Bihar and Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Rabri Devi, reignited the demand for the creation of a separate Mithila State. During the Winter Session of the Bihar Legislative Council on November 27, 2024, Ms. Devi emphasized the need for Mithilanchal to be carved out of Bihar, citing the region’s cultural and linguistic significance.

The discussion arose after BJP leader Hari Sahni praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to release India’s Constitution in the Maithili language on Constitution Day. Mr. Sahni also acknowledged former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s efforts to include Maithili in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Reacting to this, Ms. Devi, wife of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad, stated, “Recognizing Maithili language is commendable, but it’s time to give Mithila the status of a separate State. Both the Central and State governments should take steps toward this.” She urged BJP leaders to push the Prime Minister to take action on this matter.

Long-Standing Demand for Mithila State

The call for Mithila Statehood has deep historical roots. The demand was first raised in 1912 when Bihar separated from Bengal Presidency. In 1921, Maharaja Rameshwar Singh of Darbhanga Raj reiterated the call, but it was rejected by the British. Over the decades, the demand has resurfaced multiple times, including by Ms. Devi herself in 2018.

The Mithilanchal region, comprising 20 of Bihar’s 38 districts, includes areas such as Madhubani, Darbhanga, Saharsa, and Muzaffarpur. Known for its Maithili-speaking population, which accounts for one-third of Bihar’s 13 crore people, the region also boasts global recognition for its Mithila paintings and Madhubani art.

Political Implications Ahead of Elections

With Bihar Assembly elections scheduled for 2025, the demand for Mithila Statehood gains political momentum. The Mithilanchal region, which accounts for over 100 of the 243 Assembly seats in Bihar, is currently dominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The RJD and the INDIA bloc see this demand as an opportunity to strengthen their presence in the region.

Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, earlier announced the formation of the Mithila Development Authority (MDA) if the INDIA bloc comes to power in 2025.

Linguistic and Cultural Recognition

In August 2024, Janata Dal (United) leader Sanjay Jha called for Maithili to be recognized as a classical language. This demand followed the Centre’s move to grant Classical Language status to Marathi, Bengali, Pali, Prakrit, and Assamese.

Rabri Devi’s renewed call for Mithila State underscores the region’s cultural and historical significance while keeping the spotlight on the linguistic aspirations of Maithili-speaking people.

Key Takeaways:

• Mithila Statehood demand gains renewed traction ahead of Bihar elections.
• Mithilanchal includes 20 districts and over 100 Assembly seats.
• Maithili language and culture remain at the forefront of the debate.

This development could shape the political landscape as leaders focus on addressing long-standing regional aspirations.