New Delhi, August 19: Narendra Modi-led Centre could opt for the legislative route in Parliament for the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, if needed, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said on Sunday. He asserted that if the grand Ram temple was built, it will be a “true tribute” to VHP stalwart Ashok Singhal, Mahant Sri Ramchandra Das Paramhans (former head of the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas in Ayodhya) and karsewaks who sacrificed their lives. Also Read - New Book 'Amazing Ayodhya' That Tells History of Lord Rama's Birth Place to Hit the Stands in November

Speaking to news agency PTI, Maurya said,”When such a need arises that there is no way out except bringing a Bill, I am fully confident that in such a situation and when we have adequate strength (in both Houses of Parliament), remember these two things”, he said without elaborating. Also Read - Kangana Rananut Speaks on Ram Mandir, Says Aparajita Ayodhya Has Real-Life Muslim Characters Who Fought For Ram Temple

“At present, in Parliament, we do not have adequate strength. Because even if we bring the matter in Lok Sabha, our strength in the Rajya Sabha is less, and it will definitely be defeated. Every devotee of Lord Ram knows this. The court will soon give its judgement. The day we have the strength, it will be constructively used and not misused (Lekin Jis din hamare paas takat hogaa, uss takat ka sadpuyog hoga, durpayog nahi hoga),” the UP Deputy CM added. Also Read - Ram Mandir: Sporadic Clashes Erupt in Parts of West Bengal Over Ayodhya Celebrations

On being asked if the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill will anger BJP’s core vote bank, he said,”The intention of the government is to not cause any harassment to anyone by bringing in the bill. As a deputy CM of the state, I can say that in UP, no fake case will be registered and no one will be harassed unnecessarily. But, anyone doing any wrong to SC/ST people will not be spared.”