Bihar's Health Minister, Mangal Pandey, has stated he was not informed about a recent incident where a doctor reportedly refused to join duty, an event linked to the ongoing hijab controversy in the state. The senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader made this statement on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Minister Claims Lack of Official Information
When questioned by the press, Mangal Pandey, a key figure in the state's National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, expressed his lack of awareness regarding the specific case. The incident involves a doctor who allegedly declined to assume her post, with the hijab issue cited as a central reason for the refusal. Minister Pandey's comments highlight a potential gap in communication within the state's health administration concerning this sensitive matter.
NDA's Stance on Women's Empowerment
Despite distancing himself from the knowledge of the event, the minister was quick to pivot the conversation towards the ruling coalition's broader philosophy. He sought to defuse the controversy by firmly reiterating the NDA government's dedication to the empowerment of women, often referred to as 'Matri Shakti'. Pandey asserted that the state alliance has consistently worked towards strengthening and enabling women across all sectors. This statement is seen as an effort to align the government's position with its stated principles, irrespective of the isolated incident.
Context and Implications
The hijab row in Bihar echoes similar debates seen in other parts of the country, touching upon issues of religious expression, professional dress codes, and administrative protocol. The doctor's reported refusal to join duty brings these debates into the critical sphere of public healthcare. The minister's assertion of being unaware raises questions about the reporting mechanisms for such disputes within government departments. It also places the onus on the administration to ensure that its policies on inclusion and empowerment are implemented uniformly on the ground, without hindering essential services. The development underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing individual rights with institutional regulations in a diverse society.
