Treat byelection as referendum, suggests Nitish

Bhagalpur, Oct 30 (UNI) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today described the byelections to Bhagalpur and Nalanda Lok Sabha constituencies as a sort of ''referendum'' on the performance of the NDA government during the last year.

Kicking off the campaign for NDA in Bhagalpur, Mr Kumar claimed credit for restoration of peace and harmony as well as rule of law after 'redeeming' the state from the 15-year 'Lalu-Rabri misrule' and said Bihar, under the NDA rule, had offered a level playing ground for setting up industries and created an investment-friendly atmosphere.

Brushing aside the allegation of promoting communalism often levelled against the NDA, Mr Kumar argued that nomination of a member of the minority community to contest Bhagalpur seat was a glaring example of NDA's concern and respect for the minorities.

Electioneering in the constituency was gradually gaining momentum with the conclusion of autumn festival and Mr Kumar's participation in the campaign added new vigour to the NDA rank and file.

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