Bihar CM Nitish Kumar raises objection on Modi’s ‘DNA’ remark, writes open letter to him

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar took offence at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘DNA’ remark and has asked him to withdraw it.

Kumar said Modi’s remark was an insult to large section of the people of the state and beyond.

While addressing a rally in Muzaffarpur on July 25, Modi remembered the way Kumar had invited him to dinner and later cancelled the invitation.

Modi said that Kumar had not only disrespected him but also a 'mahadalit' like former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi.

"There seems to be some problem in his DNA because the DNA of democracy is not like that. In democracy you respect even your political rivals," Modi had said at the rally.

Today, Kumar wrote an open letter to Modi, which was released on Facebook and Twitter.

"Most of us feel these statements have gone beyond questioning my own descent. They have disrespected the lineage of our people and denigrated the great legacy of the state," the letter stated.

"This also gives credence to the feeling that perhaps you and your party hold a prejudice against the people of Bihar. I wonder how come the gravity of such statements repeatedly miss your alert conscience," said Kumar.

Kumar said Modi’s comment was unbecoming of the office he holds.

"I have no doubt that this gesture of yours (withdrawing the DNA remark) would go a long way in assuaging the sentiments of people and would further enhance the respect people have for you," he said.

Modi is likely to address a rally in Gaya on August 9.

Kumar also reminded Modi that this was not the first time such remarks were made by BJP leaders.

"Earlier, your colleague and BJP leader Nitin Gadkari had said that casteism is in the DNA of Bihar. Interestingly, these are the same people who reposed their faith in you and contributed towards electing you to the highest office of the country with an overwhelming majority," he added.