Rajbhar demands separate Poorvanchal state, claims CM position for community

Om Prakash Rajbhar, a prominent OBC leader, has intensified demands for the creation of a separate Poorvanchal state carved out of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Speaking at a rally in Deoria, Rajbhar proposed that Uttar Pradesh should be divided into four administrative regions to better serve regional interests.

Rajbhar asserted that if a Poorvanchal state is established as a separate entity, a member of the Rajbhar community would be positioned to become the region's first chief minister. The statement reflects growing assertiveness by OBC groups in the state regarding political representation and power-sharing arrangements.

Beyond territorial reorganisation, Rajbhar pressed for greater inclusion of OBC communities in existing affirmative action frameworks. He demanded enhanced participation in the 27 per cent OBC reservation quota, arguing that his community's interests have been inadequately represented in current reservation policies.

The demand for a separate Poorvanchal state has periodically surfaced in regional politics, with proponents citing developmental disparities and distinct cultural identity of eastern districts. However, such proposals have not found traction among major political parties at the national level, where territorial reorganisation requires constitutional amendment.