In a first, Nitish Kumar lauds PM Narendra Modi for construction of Ram temple

NEW DELHI: In a sign of growing convergence between JDU and BJP, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar has, in a first, complimented PM Narendra Modi for construction of Ram Mandir and development projects in Ayodha while also highlighting Bihar govt's scheme for development of Punaura Dham, revered birthplace of Sita in Sitamarhi district.
Kumar sought rail link between Ayodhya & Punaura Dham, and appealed for introduction of Vande Bharat to the area.Acknowledging recent efforts by Centre to improve rail connectivity, from which Bihar benefited, Kumar said, "Improved rail service between Ayodhya and Sitamarhi will greatly facilitate devotees."
In his letter, Kumar congratulated the PM on construction of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya and development projects aimed at enhancing the holy city's infrastructure.
This is significant because even while in alliance with BJP, he ensured that JDU kept its distance from the saffron party's Hindutva themes - Ram Mandir, UCC and abrogation of Article 370. It was because of insistence from him and other 'secular' allies that Hindutva themes were kept out of NDA's common minimum programme under Vajpayee.