Bihar Legislature Descends into Chaos Over 'Ladki' Remark Controversy
Proceedings in the Bihar Legislative Council were thrown into disarray for the second consecutive day of the Budget Session on Tuesday, leading to the suspension and physical eviction of all Opposition members. The turmoil erupted after repeated protests demanding an apology from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for remarks made against Leader of Opposition Rabri Devi, with the RJD alleging he used "unbecoming" language, while Treasury benches countered with claims of "anti-Dalit" slurs.
House Disruption and Escalating Tensions
As the House assembled, Opposition members, primarily from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), rushed to the Well, raising slogans and insisting on an apology from the Chief Minister. The controversy stemmed from Nitish Kumar referring to Rabri Devi as "ladki" (girl) during Monday's proceedings. RJD MLC Abdul Bari Siddiqui initiated the protest, condemning the Chief Minister's behavior and urging the Chair to demand an apology.
Sloganeering intensified as Opposition members accused Chairman Awadhesh Narayan Singh of shielding the government and acting in a partisan manner. Despite Singh's appeals for order, the situation worsened when RJD MLC Sunil Singh reiterated the demand for an apology and alleged that the ruling coalition was stifling Opposition voices.
Heated Exchanges and Allegations
A heated verbal exchange ensued after JD(U) minister Ashok Chaudhary objected to Sunil Singh's remarks, with members from both sides moving towards the Well, engaging in finger-pointing and raised voices. Sunil Singh shouted that the House was functioning in a "dictatorial" manner, triggering louder sloganeering. Treasury bench leaders accused the Opposition of deliberately disrupting proceedings, with Health Minister Mangal Pandey stating they were disrespecting the institution.
Ashok Chaudhary later alleged that Sunil Singh had used unparliamentary and abusive language against him, a claim supported by Public Works Department Minister Dilip Jaiswal, who said Singh hurled abuses at the Dalit leader. JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar demanded strict action, prompting the Chairman to state that a written complaint would be examined per Supreme Court guidelines.
Physical Eviction and Aftermath
With the Opposition continuing to occupy the Well and trade accusations, the Chairman announced the suspension of all Opposition MLCs for the day and directed marshals to escort them out. Marshals physically removed the members, most from the RJD, clearing the House for Treasury-only proceedings. Outside the Council, Rabri Devi questioned the suspension, describing the Chief Minister's remarks as objectionable and unfit for a constitutional office.
Earlier, Opposition parties had staged a protest at the legislature gates over law and order issues and crimes against women, including recent incidents in Darbhanga and a NEET aspirant's suicide. During this, Siddiqui remarked that the Chief Minister was "not in his senses," referencing alleged erratic behavior.
Downplaying and Counter-Accusations
Reacting to the exchange, JD(U) MLA Shyam Rajak downplayed the controversy, calling it "bhabhi–devar banter" and saying it did not warrant third-party commentary. After the House adjournment, Ashok Chaudhary accused the RJD of harboring an "anti-Dalit mindset" and alleged the Opposition tried to hijack proceedings despite warnings.
Assembly Proceedings and Budget Session
Meanwhile, in the Bihar Assembly, Nitin Nabin attended for the first time after becoming the BJP's national president, drawing applause from NDA legislators. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary termed it "historic," noting a leader from Bihar was heading a major national party. Nabin thanked party workers and leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
The Opposition later staged a walkout during the Public Works Department budget discussion, where Minister Dilip Jaiswal reiterated the government's commitment to upgrading all major roads to two-lane standards. The Budget Session, which began on February 2 and runs until February 27, continues amid confrontations between Treasury and Opposition benches.
