Ram Rajya synonymous with true democracy: PM

The very idea of Ram Rajya was synonymous with true democracy where every citizen's voice is heard and there is universal respect, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday, five days ahead of the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

- Rajeev Jayaswal and Srinivasa Rao Apparasu

Modi's comments came during a tour of Andhra Pradesh, part of a two-day trip to southern India, his second this year, and hours after weeklong rituals in the run-up to the main consecration ceremony of the idol at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya began.

The PM said that Lord Ram's inspiration was not limited to devotion, but that he was a symbol of good governance as well. "Ram Rajya was established on four pillars where everyone can walk with their heads held high and with dignity, every citizen is treated as an equal, the downtrodden are protected, and dharma holds paramount importance."

Ram Rajya refers to the rule of Lord Ram and is usually associated with virtuous monarchy, values, prosperity and peace.

Modi was speaking at the inauguration of the campus of the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) in Andhra Pradesh's Palasamudram, and said that even modern day administrators of institutions such as NACIN would do well to keep these four goals in mind. "In the 21st century, as administrators who enforce rules and regulations of these modern institutions, you must focus on these four goals and keep them in mind," he said.