Sitamarhi / Patna, August 8, 2025 — A day of contrasts: in Sitamarhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, will lay the foundation stone for the majestic Maa Sita Temple at Punaura Dham, the revered birthplace of Goddess Sita. Meanwhile, in Patna, peaceful protests by STET aspirants demanding their eligibility test before TRE‑4 recruitment turned chaotic as police used lathi‑charge to disperse them.
Maa Sita Temple: A Historic Ceremony
The temple project at Punaura Dham is a central piece of Bihar’s “Ramayana circuit” and a major religious and political milestone. Scheduled for August 8, the ceremony will feature:
-
Rituals involving water from 112 rivers and soil from 36 sacred sites, led by six notable acharyas.
-
Participation of saints from Ayodhya, Janakpur, and other spiritual hubs.
-
A 151-ft tall temple—just five feet shorter than the Ram temple in Ayodhya—spanning 67 acres, including Sita Vatika, Luv-Kush Vatika, Vedic schools, exhibition halls, and guesthouses.
-
Architectural design by Chandrakant Sompura, famed for the Ayodhya project; the temple’s ₹882 crore development is expected to be completed by 2028.
The Times of India+1The Economic Times
The temple is not only a spiritual landmark but also envisioned as a boost to religious tourism, creating employment and reinforcing the cultural identity of the Mithila region.
The Times of IndiaNavbharat Times
STET Aspirants Clash with Police in Patna
In Patna, tensions escalated when thousands of teacher-aspirants took to the streets demanding the Secondary Teacher Eligibility Test (STET) be conducted before TRE‑4, as stipulated. Protesters gathered at JP Roundabout and Dak Bungalow Crossing, carrying national flags and placards stating “No STET, No Vote”.
The protest turned chaotic when demonstrators attempted to breach barricades, prompting police to lathi-charge. Although water cannons were deployed, they weren’t used. Several aspirants were reportedly injured; no arrests were made.
The Times of India+1Hindustan TimesIndia News Stream
Organizers say the delay in STET is unfair, as many BEd and BTC trainees from 2022–2025 will become ineligible for TRE‑4 if the exam isn’t held on time. Protest discussions with the Chief Secretary followed, but aspirants continue demanding a firm commitment.
www.ndtv.comThe Times of India
Summary Table
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Ceremony | Amit Shah, Nitish Kumar to lay foundation for Maa Sita temple at Punaura Dham |
| Significance | Religious and cultural boost for Ramayana circuit, projected tourism gains |
| STET Protest | Teacher aspirants demanding eligibility test before TRE‑4 faced lathi‑charge |
| Tensions Rise | Aspirants injured; campaign highlights concerns of teacher recruitment fairness |
