Natural for UP governor to call for Ram Mandir as his name has 'Ram' in it: Shiv Sena

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Friday said it is natural for Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik to be active on the issue of the Ram Mandir movement as his first name is 'Ram'.

"What is wrong with what Ram Naik said? He maybe the governor today, but he was active in the Ram Mandir movement from the start. Ram Naik has 'Ram' in his name so naturally he will be active in the Ram Mandir movement," said Raut.

He further said that the Shiv Sainiks had laid down their lives to demolish the Babri Masjid and had become martyrs in the Ram Mandir movement.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi said the Uttar Pradesh Governor should stop making such statements as he holds a constitutional post.

"Ram Naik is on a constitutional post. Therefore, he should not give such statements. Everyday the BJP people are giving communal comments. This is dangerous for the country," he said.

Furthermore, SP leader Naresh Agarwal said that even if Ram Naik's statement is a personal opinion, he must avoid such comments as he is no longer a BJP leader but a governor.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Thursday sparked controversy after he said that a Ram temple should be built in Ayodhya saying that "it is the wish of Indian citizens".

"People of the nation want Ram Mandir to be made, that wish should be fulfilled as soon as possible," Naik said.