Ram Mandir vs Sita Mandir: Bihar to develop Sita's birth site in Sitamarhi to counter BJP's Ayodhya 'temple agenda'

In a strategic move amid reports of the BJP's plans to make the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya a central issue in the upcoming general elections, the ruling Grand Alliance government in Bihar, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has given its nod for the development of the ancient Punaura Dham temple dedicated to Goddess Sita, a TOI report stated.

Punaura Dham, a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site situated in the Sitamarhi district, holds significance as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. Each year, numerous pilgrims visit this sacred site to pay their respects to the deity.

Political analysts suggest that this decision aims to counter the BJP's "temple agenda" and attract Hindu voters, signaling a potentially crucial development in the state's political landscape.


The decision to enhance this pilgrimage site, located approximately 150 km north of Patna, was taken during a recent state cabinet meeting, following a proposal by the state tourism department, led by Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav.

"The cabinet has approved an allocation of Rs 72.47 crore for the comprehensive development of Punaura Dham temple in Sitamarhi district. This marks a significant project", stated S Siddhartha, Additional Chief Secretary of the cabinet secretariat department. The project encompasses the development of 'Sita Vatika,' 'Luv-Kush Vatika,' a cafeteria, landscaping, pathways, and the organization of animation shows, among other initiatives.

According to legend, during a severe famine in Mithila, the priest advised King Janak to plough a field, and from the earth emerged an earthen pot containing an infant Mother Sita.

In response to this, the BJP has criticized the Grand Alliance, questioning the timing of their interest in developing the temple. State BJP spokesperson Manoj Sharma said, "This temple has existed there for years. Why didn't Nitish Kumar show interest in developing it earlier?" He accused the ruling coalition of imitating the BJP.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that the Ram temple in Ayodhya will be open for devotees by mid-January next year, with preparations for the inauguration set to commence on January 14, pending confirmation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The JD(U) has defended Nitish Kumar's actions, emphasising that his administration has worked for the welfare of all sections of society, not just Hindus. Rajib Ranjan, JD(U)'s national general secretary, alleged that the BJP's focus lies in fomenting communal tensions and promoting Hindutva.

In a similar vein, last November, JD(U) Minister for Planning and Development Bijendra Prasad Yadav questioned the neglect of Goddess Sita's birthplace and called for the construction of a grand temple dedicated to her in Sitamarhi, akin to the efforts in Ayodhya.

Supporting this sentiment, Bihar Legislative Council chairman Devesh Chandra Thakur urged the government to acquire land and initiate the construction of a magnificent temple for Goddess Sita in Sitamarhi. He emphasized the need for justice to be done to Mother Sita and called for swift government action to fulfill this demand.