On Uri Attack, PM Modi Finds An Unlikely Ally - Nitish Kumar

Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is facing criticism from the Congress for security lapse at the Uri army base -- where a terror attack has claimed the lives of 18 soldiers -- received support from an unexpected quarter today.

His arch-rival Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has said there should be no politics over the terror attack. "Terrorism is one issue where we should be united and refrain from finding fault with each other," he said, adding that it would send a strong signal to all indulging in and abetting terrorism.

"We should avoid such discussion that how terrorists sneaked in, as they are also highly motivated and on a suicide mission. But there should be unanimity on how to tackle them," Mr Kumar said.

The Centre, he said, should take steps to create an atmosphere against those who patronise terrorists. Blaming Pakistan for the terror attacks in India, he said, "There's no confusion about the role of that country".

Earlier too, Mr Kumar had supported the Narendra Modi government on the Kashmir issue, saying he stood with the Centre regarding the steps taken to defuse the situation in the state.

A former railway minister, Mr Kumar, however, was critical of the Centre's decision to do away with Railway budget, saying it would bring no profit and end the autonomy the Railways enjoyed over the years.