Birgunj, November 4:

Vice-chairman of the Council of Ministers, Kirtinidhi Bista, laid a foundation stone for the construction of a memorial pillar of the World Hindu Federation amidst a function held here today.

Addressing the function, Bista said Hindu religion lays stress on creating a conducive environment for peaceful coexistence while promoting peace, harmony and brotherhood in the world.

Hindu religion is great and liberal, he said, adding that religious harmony and social goodwill will help restore lasting peace in the country. “We should be all be proud of it,” he said. Instead of peace and prosperity, material development without spiritual consciousness would only create division and conflict in the society and this would hinder development, he said.

The pillar to be constructed at the cost of Rs 25 lakh in Birgunj sub-Metropolitan-17 Piramath will also reflect Hindu, Buddha, Sikh and Jain Religion and the silver jubilee anniversary of the federation is scheduled to be celebrated on Ramnawami Day — the birthday of Lord Ram, which falls on Chaitra 25.

Speaking on the occasion, the chairman of the World Hindu Federation, major-general Bharat Keshar Singh, expressed confidence that the all the Hindus will support the King’s move.

On the occasion, regional administrator of the Central Region, Rabindra Chakr-abarti, and chairman of the Guthi Sansthan, Nabraj Sinkhada, and others also expressed their views. Earlier, a religious procession accompanied by musical band was taken out from the Maisthan temple. Carrying the Mul Shanti Kalash given by the King, the procession ended up in Piramath after passing through different parts of the city.