A major controversy has erupted in Bihar after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar allegedly pulled down the hijab of a newly appointed woman AYUSH doctor during an official event. The incident, which occurred on Monday, December 17, 2025, at the 'Samvad' CM Secretariat in Patna, has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition leaders and prompted a formal complaint to the National Commission for Women (NCW).
Video Sparks Outrage and Political Condemnation
The incident took place during a ceremony where appointment letters were being distributed to over 1,000 AYUSH doctors. A purported video clip of the moment quickly went viral on social media platforms, amplifying the public outcry. Opposition leaders were swift to react, labeling the act as a violation of personal dignity and religious expression.
Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, stated that the incident revealed the "true face of Nitish Kumar," whom he said was once considered a secular leader. He drew parallels to a past incident involving Mehbooba Mufti, calling both actions "unfortunate."
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray took to social media platform X to voice strong criticism. He asserted that no one has the right to touch a woman or her attire, be it a hijab, ghoongat, or mask, without her consent. He expressed disgust at attempts to defend the act by invoking a 'father figure' narrative.
Formal Complaint and Official Reactions
From Hyderabad, a group comprising social activist Lubna Sarwath, civil rights activist Nikhat Fatima, and two others lodged a formal complaint with NCW chief Vijaya K Rahatkar. Their letter described the Chief Minister's act as "abominable" and argued it sent a dangerous message that those in power could violate a woman's personal space and attire. They have demanded suo motu action from the commission and immediate counselling for the affected doctor, who hails from Gaya.
In contrast, the ruling JD(U) sought to downplay the incident. Party chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar told The Indian Express that "too much is being read into a flash incident." He claimed the CM was merely trying to ascertain the doctor's identity and that political and religious colour was being unnecessarily added. He pointed to Nitish Kumar's record on women's empowerment and minority welfare.
Health Department Clarifies Amidst Community Pressure Concerns
Amidst the growing row, the Bihar Health Ministry stepped in to dismiss rumours that the woman doctor had refused to join her duties due to community pressure or the controversy. A health department official clarified that no written denial had been received from the doctor or her family regarding the appointment. This statement aimed to quell speculation about the professional repercussions for the doctor involved.
The incident has undoubtedly snowballed into a significant political issue, putting the Bihar Chief Minister's conduct under intense national scrutiny and raising critical questions about personal liberty, religious symbols, and the conduct of public figures.
