Nitish asks people to be on guard ahead of Ramnavami

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today urged the people to be on their guard against attempts to whip up communal passion ahead of Ramnavami on Sunday.

The chief minister's concern comes close on the heels of alleged inflammatory remarks by several leaders in the state, which led to disruption of Assembly proceedings, more than once this week.

"It has been nearly three decades since Bihar has witnessed any large-scale communal violence. Our government has been committed to maintaining communal harmony. Yet there are elements who are always up to some mischief. I would request you all to be on your guard," he said at the inaugural programme of the three-day Bihar Diwas celebrations.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, Governor Satya Pal Mallik and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi were also present.

"To remain vigilant is very important with Ramnavami just around the corner. Last year, the Navaratri festivities had coincided with Moharram and the people of the state took part in both while ensuring that peace was not disturbed. Please ensure the same this time," Kumar said.

Recently, the state had witnessed communal clashes in Bhagalpur, where Union minister Ashwini Choubey's sonwas booked for taking out a procession without permission.

Also, Union minister Giriraj Singh and state BJP president Nityanand Rai drew flak for alleged incendiary statements in the aftermath of the killing of a BJP worker's father, which the police said was over a land dispute.

Highlighting the achievements of his tenure, Kumar said, "A pall of gloom had engulfed Bihar when its mineral-rich part was carved out for the creation of Jharkhand."