Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik came out in support of “early construction of Ram temple” in Ayodhya and said it is the desire of the people of the country, which should be fulfilled. Naik was in Faizabad to attend the 19th convocation of Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University as its chancellor.

“Ram Mandir jald bane aisi bharatiya nagariko ki ichha hai, aur unki ichha puri honi chahiye. (It is the desire of the citizens of this country that Ram Mandir is constructed as early as possible and this wish should be fulfilled,” Naik said while talking to reporters.

This is the second instance when Naik, with RSS background, has spoken about Ram Temple in Ayodhya after becoming the Governor of Uttar Pradesh. About a month back, during his visit to Ayodhya, Naik had said he is hopeful that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would find a solution to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babari Masjid dispute within five years by involving both the sides.

However, on Thursday, words of the Governor came out rather strongly in favour of the construction of the temple, inviting strong reactions from parties in the state especially Congress.

“Be it statement on construction of Ram Temple or other issues, Governor should remember that he is on a constitutional post. He might have had political associations in the past but as a Governor he should remember it is a constitutional post and should respond accordingly,” said Congress state president and former MP from Faizabad Nirmal Khatri.

“I am not aware in what context the Governor has made the statement. For the Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute, it is our stand that it should be solved either through mutual understanding or through court verdict. We cannot say much as the matter is in court,” said Rajendra Choudhary, Samajwadi Party spokesperson.

Earlier, Naik had invited senior RSS functionaries, including RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for dinner to the Governor House. It was later clarified that they were invited in personal capacity.

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