Patna, Jan 26 (IANS) The 66th Republic Day was celebrated across Bihar Monday with joy and enthusiasm amid tight security.

Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi hoisted the tricolour in Patna. Despite intelligence bureau inputs on a possible terror strike and a Maoist boycott call, hundreds of people joined the celebrations in Patna and other places across the state.

According to officials, the chief minister hoisted the national flag instead of Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi, following directives from the union home ministry.

Tripathi holds the additional charge of West Bengal governor and will hoist the tricolour in Kolkata.

The chief minister said in his speech that development is the main agenda of the state government, highlighting the progress made in Bihar.

Manjhi appealed to the people to maintain communal harmony and peace.

Celebrations took place in major towns, with thousands thronging every venue.

Maoists put up black flags in Gaya, Aurangabad, Jamui and Banka districts to protest against the Republic Day.