Nitish seeks apology from Goa minister

He was reacting to Goa home minister's reported statement opposing the proposed introduction of a train from Patna to Panaji as he feared Bihari influx.

Denouncing the reported anti-Bihari remarks by a Goa minister, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday demanded an unqualified apology from him for having hurt the sensibilities of the people of the state.

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Coming from a person occupying the responsible post of a minister in a state the remark is deplorable and should be condemned by all. The remark should be withdrawn immediately and the minister should tender an unqualified apology to the people of Bihar, Kumar told reporters.

He was reacting to the reported statement of Goa Home minister Ravi Naik opposing the proposed introduction of a train from Patna to Panaji as beggars from Bihar would start visiting the coastal state.

Though the minister's unwarranted remark has not not lowered our respect for the state or its people, it merits to be denounced and an apology from Naik would be in place. Biharis are not not beggars, but have earned respect and status and done our state proud through sheer merit and hard work, Kumar said.

He also demanded that the Congress, to which Naik belongs also clarify the situation.