Ram temple still on BJP's agenda -- Gupta

Ram temple still on BJP's agenda -- Gupta
PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

FAIZABAD (UP), DEC 12: Two days after expelled BJP leader Kalyan Singh dissociated himself from the Ram Janmabhumi temple issue, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Ram Prakash Gupta today said the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya continued to be on BJP's agenda.

Gupta told reporters here that BJP had not given up the temple issue."Constructing of Ram temple at Ayodhya may not be on the agenda of National Democratic Alliance but as far as BJP is concerned, it is very much on our agenda," he said.

The Chief Minister said the temple would be constructed only when the party gained strength and was able to form the government at the Centre on its own. "The BJP is already concentrating to increase its strength," he said.Earlier, Gupta paid his obeisance at the make-shift Ramlalla temple at the Ram Janambhumi complex and offered prayers at different temples including the famous Hanuman Garhi.

Gupta's visit to this temple town comes exactly one month after he became chief minister.

Kalyan Singh, after hisexpulsion from BJP, had announced to dissociate himself from the Ram Janmabhumi movement, saying "let it be decided by BJP, Vishwa Hindu Parishad and RSS".

Gupta said a comprehensive development plan for Ayodhya would be implemented soon and Rs eight crore spent in next four months for this purpose.

The government will also consider the proposal to declare Ayodhya a "heritage city," he said, adding proposals in this regard have been submitted by the district administration.

On the progress of "Ayodhya package" announced by the Kalyan Singh, Gupta said there was a difference of opinion with him on the package plan.