Nitish Kumar Pulls Down Hijab at Event, Sparks Political Clash
Nitish Kumar Pulls Down Hijab at Event, Sparks Political Clash
A video shows Bihar CM Nitish Kumar removing a hijab from an AYUSH doctor at an appointment letter distribution event in Patna, triggering political backlash over religious autonomy and conduct.
A video circulated online showing Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar removing a hijab from a Muslim woman during an appointment letter distribution event in Patna. In the clip, Kumar is seen pointing to the head scarf and pulling it down as officials stand nearby. The incident occurred at a function where appointment letters were being handed to AYUSH doctors.
Opposition parties condemned the moment, with the RJD posting the clip and questioning Kumar's mental state and whether he has embraced a more hardline sanghi stance. They accused the government of showing disrespect to a religious tradition and called for a clarification from the chief minister.
The video also captures Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary behind Kumar, appearing to intervene as Health Minister Mangal Pandey and others nearby seem to react. The affair has reignited a broader debate about public conduct and religious symbols in official events.
Observers note that Bihar politics is intensely charged ahead of elections, with rivals eager to frame the incident as part of a pattern in which leadership faces accusations of pandering to the BJP-RSS axis. Supporters, meanwhile, argued that the moment should be viewed in its full context and that political reactions risk turning a single incident into a larger sectarian dispute.
Beyond this clip, Bihar has seen prior moments that opponents cite as evidence of a controversial public persona, including past episodes where the CM refused to wear a skull cap at a madrasa, and other public gaffes that critics say undermine respectful engagement with all communities. The incident has prompted calls for accountability and respectful governance, regardless of political affiliation.
As the story unfolds, the focus remains on the balance between personal conduct and public duty, and on how leaders handle sensitive issues that touch on religious identity.
Cover image source: RJD slams Nitish after video shows CM removing woman’s hijab 🔗
