Funds announced for Bihar its right: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said funds allocated to Bihar by his government were its "right".

Addressing an election rally here, Modi said: "Bihar must vote for development" and development can come only with investment.

"The solution to all problems lies in development. It will set us free from all problems," he said.

"Development needs investment. The government in Delhi has opened its coffers for Bihar. This is not a favour, it is Bihar's right, which was not given to it so far," the prime minister said.

Modi had announced funds worth Rs.1,65,000 crore for Bihar.

He also took a dig at the state's Nitish Kumar government, saying they are not trustworthy.

"Some people question if the Rs.1,65,000 crore that has been promised will come to Bihar or not... tell me, the present day government should be given even a rupee? Will you get anything? They are so arrogant, maybe we give them money and they return it," he said.

The polls to the 243-member Bihar assembly will take place in five phases between October 12 and November 5. The counting of votes is slated for November 8.