The Central government has officially cancelled the Eastern Zonal Council meeting that was scheduled to take place on May 10 in Ranchi, Jharkhand. All concerned state governments have been duly informed about this development.
Although an official reason for the cancellation has not been publicly confirmed, sources suggest that the decision may be linked to rising geopolitical tensions and the possibility of a conflict between India and Pakistan. This potential security situation has reportedly influenced the government's decision to postpone high-level meetings and travel.
As a result of the cancellation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah will no longer be visiting Ranchi as originally planned. According to the initial itinerary, Shah was expected to arrive in the state capital on May 9 and participate in the Eastern Zonal Council meeting on May 10. The meeting was expected to bring together the Chief Ministers of Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand, along with other senior officials, to discuss regional development and coordination.
The Jharkhand state government had already completed extensive preparations for hosting the event. Upon receiving confirmation of the Union Home Minister’s visit, the administration had designated him and accompanying officials as state guests, ensuring all necessary protocols and accommodations were in place.
Reports indicate that the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar had confirmed his attendance. However, the governments of Odisha and West Bengal had not yet submitted the list of representatives who would be participating in the meeting at the time of its cancellation.