Motihari, 19th October 2023: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar sent ripples through political circles on Thursday with a seemingly veiled comment on maintaining relationships with BJP leaders. In the same speech, he criticized the then UPA government, led by Congress, for not addressing his demands. He later clarified that his statement had been misinterpreted, adding a layer of intrigue to the day’s events.
Speaking at the first convocation of Mahatma Gandhi Central University (MGCU) in Motihari, CM Nitish, while indicating a prominent state BJP official and former Union Minister, Radha Mohan Singh, stated, “The individuals seated here in the front have been by our side since 2005. We hold deep respect for all and will carry each of you in our hearts for as long as we live.”
He added, “Our commitment to relationships endures throughout our lives, always accompanied by mutual respect. These connections evoke a profound sense of respect, and we are unwavering in our dedication to serve and honor all of you in the future.”
However, during an evening address at the convocation ceremony at AIIMS-Patna, the Chief Minister clarified that his morning statement had been misconstrued by the media. He stated, “I frequently express my admiration for individuals… I made a comment at a different location earlier today, and it appears to have been misinterpreted… I reminded an old acquaintance, who is present here as well, to recall the shared experiences, and he responded with applause. Nevertheless, the past remains in the past.”
Earlier in the day, at the MGCU convocation ceremony, the Bihar CM reflected on the university’s development and asserted that the Congress-led government at the time had denied his proposal to establish the institution in Champaran.
“In 2007, the Central Government established Central Universities in several states. Subsequently, in 2009, the Central Universities Act was enacted by the Congress-led government at the center. At the time, the Union Minister and I collectively advocated for the establishment of a central university in Bihar. We recommended that the Central University in Bihar be located on the hallowed ground of Bapu’s birthplace, Champaran. Regrettably, our proposal was rebuffed,” Nitish remarked.
He added, “The then Union Minister extended an invitation to us and even shared a meal, but he opined that establishing a central university in Champaran would be inappropriate. He suggested Gaya as an alternative. We argued for the creation of two central universities – one in Gaya and the other in Champaran.”
The Chief Minister underscored the historical significance of Champaran, the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s transformative Champaran Satyagraha in 1917. He called upon President Draupadi Murmu to visit a school established by Gandhi in Champaran, emphasizing its historical relevance.
Delving into Bihar’s own transformation, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar highlighted the state’s journey towards development, a journey that commenced in 2005. He attributed the region’s progress to Mahatma Gandhi’s influence and the growing awareness of the importance of education. He also alluded to the false accusations brought against Mahatma Gandhi by the British colonial administration during the Champaran Satyagraha.
Concluding his address, the Bihar CM emphasized the urgency of expediting the construction of Mahatma Gandhi Central University’s campus in Motihari, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to providing the requisite resources and support for its development. He pledged to ensure a conducive learning environment for both students and educators.
The Chief Minister expressed optimism regarding the university’s future and conveyed his gratitude to all those who had contributed to the collective journey of progress. He extended a warm invitation to President Murmu to explore the historical legacy of Mahatma Gandhi in Bihar, promising to showcase the remarkable achievements and landmarks associated with the Father of the Nation.
In conclusion, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reiterated his profound respect for all those who had played a part in Bihar’s journey, pledging to continue serving and honoring them in the years to come.
