The Vidarbha Rajya Andolan Samiti (VRAS) has intensified its campaign for a separate Vidarbha state, aiming for statehood by 2027. During its quarterly national meeting held in Nagpur on Wednesday, the organization unveiled an extensive agitation roadmap, which includes a series of protests and public outreach initiatives designed to reignite the long-standing movement across the region.
Key Decisions and Protests
Among the key decisions taken was the announcement of a Kranti Din Long March on August 9. The march will commence from Deekshabhoomi and culminate at Samvidhan Chowk, followed by a public rally. This event is expected to serve as a major mobilisation effort for supporters of separate statehood.
Another protest is scheduled between September 24 and 28, during which copies of the Nagpur Pact will be symbolically burned across districts and talukas in Vidarbha. VRAS leaders stated that the move is intended to protest what they described as the continued neglect of Vidarbha and the alleged failure to honour assurances made under the pact.
Meeting and Attendees
The state-level core committee meeting of VRAS was held at the MLA Hostel in Nagpur, under the chairmanship of former MLA Wamanrao Chatap. District presidents, coordinators, and senior office-bearers attended the session. Also present was Metta Ramarao, national vice-president of the Federation for Creation of New States (Navrajya Nirman Mahasangh).
Public Outreach Initiatives
Apart from protests, the organisation has planned a public outreach drive through Vidarbha Nirman Jansankalp Melavas aimed at taking the movement to grassroots levels. One such event is proposed at Sindkhed Raja in Buldhana district between July 15 and 20. Another major programme will be held on October 2 at Sewagram in Wardha district on Gandhi Jayanti.
Resolution and NCRB Report
During discussions, members cited a recent National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report claiming Nagpur had ranked among cities with high crime rates. Based on this, leaders passed a resolution demanding immediate creation of separate Vidarbha, arguing that regional concerns and developmental aspirations continue to remain neglected under the current administrative framework.
