Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has drawn criticism after a video showed him pulling down the face veil of a newly appointed Muslim woman AYUSH doctor during an appointment letter distribution ceremony. Opposition parties termed the act insensitive and questioned its appropriateness.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the incident occurred on Monday at Samvad Hall in the CM’s secretariat during distribution of letters to 1,283 AYUSH doctors. Times of India reported that when Nusrat Parveen approached wearing a niqab covering her face, Kumar gestured, asked “what is this?”, and pulled it down.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary appeared to intervene, while some officials laughed. The woman was quickly moved aside. PTI noted the event included Ayurvedic, Homeopathic and Unani practitioners.
The Rashtriya Janata Dal shared the video, questioning Kumar’s conduct and suggesting influence from alliance partner BJP. Congress called it a vile act, demanding resignation and raising concerns over women’s safety. RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad stated it reflected attitudes towards minorities.
JD(U) sources defended the gesture, citing Kumar’s affection for children and possible intent for clear identification in photographs. No official statement from the CMO addressed the criticism directly as of Tuesday.
Social activist Raja Shakeel condemned the incident, stating the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao slogan rings hollow when women’s dignity is disregarded. He called touching a hijab without consent an assault on personal freedom and urged resignation for violating constitutional values.
The video circulated widely on social media, intensifying debates on religious freedom and public officials’ conduct. No apology or further action was announced.
The Chenab Times News Desk