FORMER CM OFFERS PRAYERS AT BAKHORAPUR

FORMER CM OFFERS PRAYERS AT BAKHORAPUR

27-JULY-ENG 19

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-------------------------A stir of activity arose in Bhojpur on Monday morning with the arrival of former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. He reached the Barhara block around 11:00 AM. There, he performed special rituals and offered prayers to Goddess Kali at the renowned 'Siddhpeeth' (sacred shrine) of Jai Maa Kali in Bakhorapur, strictly adhering to traditional rites. He also prayed for the state's peace, prosperity, and well-being.

The administration had been on high alert regarding his visit, placing the entire area under a security cordon. Robust security arrangements were put in place along the route from Keshopur to the Bakhorapur temple prior to his arrival. Police forces were deployed at various points, stretching from the road to the temple premises.

Close watch was kept on access routes and individuals to prevent any disorder. Sadar SDPO-2 Ranjit Kumar Singh oversaw security operations, while Barhara Station House Officer (SHO) Chunmun Kumari remained present on-site to monitor the situation continuously.

According to Sunil Singh Gopal, the temple's chief patron, Nitish Kumar had expressed a desire to visit the shrine two days earlier. In accordance with the scheduled program, he arrived on Monday and performed the rituals for Goddess Kali. He spent about 15 minutes within the temple complex, offering prayers with a serene demeanor and seeking the state's prosperity. An atmosphere of deep reverence prevailed within the temple premises during his visit.

After concluding the prayers, the former Chief Minister departed without delivering a public address. However, a large number of supporters and locals had been waiting for him outside the temple. As he emerged, he was greeted warmly by the crowd. Amidst this, some supporters raised slogans demanding the re-induction of Chhotu Singh into the party, briefly lending a political tone to the atmosphere.

Several public representatives and dignitaries were also present on the occasion. The event gained significant prominence due to the presence of Barhara MLA Raghavendra Pratap Singh, Minister Bhagwan Singh Kushwaha, MLA Radhacharan Seth, Temple Trust President BD Singh, and others. A substantial crowd of devotees was observed within the temple premises, yet the situation remained fully under control thanks to the administration's vigilance.

The administration kept a close watch on the situation throughout the event. Due to the active presence of the police force and strict monitoring, there was no chaos or disorder anywhere. Devotees faced no difficulties in offering their prayers. Security arrangements were so robust that a sense of discipline was clearly evident across the area.

Nitish Kumar remained the talk of the town in Bhojpur throughout the day following this visit. While an atmosphere of faith was visible among the people, political activity was also clearly apparent. Although the former Chief Minister did not make a statement, his visit is considered significant in many respects. The administrative vigilance and the peaceful conduct of the event demonstrated that the district administration is fully prepared and serious regarding such programs.