A formal police complaint has been lodged in Lucknow, demanding criminal action against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Sanjay Nishad. The complaint stems from a widely circulated video and subsequent remarks that have ignited a political firestorm.
Complaint Filed at Kaiserbagh Police Station
The complaint was submitted at the Kaiserbagh Police Station in Lucknow by Samajwadi Party leader Sumaiya Rana, accompanied by her legal team. They have formally requested the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and stringent legal proceedings against both leaders.
The core of the complaint is a viral video clip from an official event where appointment letters were being distributed to newly appointed AYUSH doctors. In the video, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar is allegedly seen pulling a Muslim woman's hijab. This action has drawn sharp condemnation from politicians across party lines, who have labeled it as inappropriate and demeaning.
Political Outcry and Legal Arguments
Speaking to ANI, complainant Sumaiya Rana stated that the act sets a perilous precedent. She argued that when a person holding a constitutional office behaves in such a manner, it effectively encourages other workers to replicate such actions. "For a person holding a constitutional position to behave in this manner means he is encouraging his other workers to engage in similar acts," Rana said.
The complaint also targets UP Minister Sanjay Nishad for his controversial remarks defending the act. Rana quoted Nishad as saying, "Why is there so much controversy over removing a burqa? His hands only touched her face. If his hands had touched somewhere else, what would have happened then?" Rana cited these statements as further grounds for legal action.
Lawyers Cite Serious Penal Provisions
Advocate Misham Zaidi, who was part of the delegation filing the complaint, outlined the serious legal charges applicable in this case. He asserted that Nitish Kumar's actions directly attract Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty.
Regarding Sanjay Nishad's comments, Zaidi argued they were incendiary. "What Sanjay Nishad has done incites religious sentiments. This is a clear-cut case under Section 153A, as you are knowingly engaging in such acts that could instigate riots, create unrest, and disturb the law and order of the state," the advocate stated.
The incident continues to generate intense debate, highlighting issues of dignity, religious sentiment, and the conduct of public representatives. The police are now reviewing the complaint to decide on the next course of action.
