Union Minister Ramdas Athawale Demands Statehood for Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Tuesday made a strong pitch for statehood for the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, asserting that it deserves recognition and autonomy similar to that of Goa and Puducherry.

Athawale, who is also the President of the Republican Party of India (Athawale), stated during a press interaction that the region's development and governance could significantly improve if granted statehood. He emphasized that despite being a partner in the Narendra Modi-led NDA government, his party would not hesitate to launch an agitation if the demand was not addressed.

"This Union Territory has a rich cultural identity, a growing youth population, and aspirations for self-governance. It is high time the Centre considers elevating it to full-fledged statehood, just as it did for Goa and Puducherry," Athawale declared.

He further noted that local RPI (A) workers are preparing to mobilize support and organize peaceful protests to push the demand forward. “We are a part of the government, but we also represent the voice of the people. If necessary, our workers will take to the streets in a democratic manner to press for statehood,” he added.

Athawale’s statement has sparked political conversation in the region, with many residents welcoming the idea, hoping it would bring better infrastructure, employment opportunities, and local governance powers.

The call for statehood comes at a time when regional identity and autonomy have become pressing issues in various parts of India, and it remains to be seen how the Centre will respond to this renewed push from one of its own coalition partners.