Activists and political figures have filed formal complaints against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar following a controversial incident involving a Muslim woman’s niqab at an official event. The issue has triggered widespread outrage across India, with critics accusing the chief minister of violating personal dignity and religious freedom during a public ceremony.
The controversy erupted after a video circulated on social media showing Nitish Kumar allegedly pulling aside the niqab of a woman during the distribution of appointment letters to newly recruited AYUSH doctors. The footage quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from civil society groups, opposition leaders, and human rights activists who termed the act inappropriate and insensitive.
Several activists have since approached police authorities in different cities, including Hyderabad and Lucknow, seeking legal action against the Bihar chief minister. The complaints argue that the act amounted to an assault on the woman’s dignity and an infringement of her constitutional right to practice her religion freely. Complainants have demanded the registration of formal cases under relevant legal provisions.
Human rights organisations have also condemned the incident, stating that public officials must respect personal boundaries and religious beliefs, especially during official state functions. They warned that such actions by senior leaders risk normalising behaviour that could deepen social divisions and undermine minority rights in the country.
The incident has further intensified political tensions, with opposition parties accusing the ruling leadership of insensitivity towards Muslims. Some leaders have claimed that the act reflects a broader pattern of disregard for minority concerns, while supporters of the chief minister have argued that the incident was misinterpreted and blown out of proportion.
Police authorities have confirmed receiving complaints and said they are examining the matter in accordance with the law. As public debate continues, the case has once again highlighted the sensitive intersection of politics, religion, and personal freedom in India’s public life, with many calling for accountability and restraint from those in power.
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