BJP trying to import beef controversy into Bihar; ready to debate with Modi: Nitish Kumar

Patna: As politicians continue to blow up the Dadri lynching incident, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for trying to import the beef controversy into the state ahead of Assembly elections, scheduled to commence from October 12.

In an interview to NDTV, the Janata Dal (United) leader hit out at the BJP for trying to import the beef lynching issue into Bihar, saying the party ruling at the Centre has no agenda.

Kumar, who is heading the grand alliance of the JD(U), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress, accused the BJP of trying to polarise voters on communal lines, further adding that the alleged beef controversy in Uttar Pradesh's Dadri is a non-issue in Bihar.

The JD(U) leader also challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his arch rival, for a debate on the issues related to Bihar.

While challenging the BJP's star campaigner for an open debate, the Bihar CM accused PM Modi of relying only on one agenda - to divide the society.

Kumar, who is running for a third term as Bihar CM, dismissed the reports that there are some problems between RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

When asked about his decision to align with Lalu, who has been convicted of corruption, Kumar defended himself saying, “The entire country is watching the Bihar polls. If those who condemn the BJP's politics don't get together and fight, then the people of the country will not like it. This fight is not just about Bihar. And that is why we joined hands.”

The JD(U) leader also accused the media of not giving enough space to him.

Bihar will elect a new 243-member Assembly in staggered polls to be held between October 12 and November 5. The counting of votes will be held on November 8.