Patna: The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Saturday criticized Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary over his remark that AI-enabled cameras could identify people wearing a 'hara gamchha' (green scarf). The comment was widely interpreted as an indirect political swipe at the RJD, whose members and supporters are often associated with green gamchhas. The opposition party stated that such remarks were inappropriate from the dais of an official programme and risked sending a divisive political message.
RJD Spokesperson's Strong Reaction
RJD national spokesperson Manoj Jha asserted that the CM's statement could not be dismissed as harmless satire or casual political humour. He emphasized that in Bihar's politically sensitive atmosphere, references to a gamchha of a particular colour amounted to 'dog-whistle politics' directed at an opposition party with significant public support.
Impact on Democratic Values
Jha argued that such language weakens democratic values and legitimizes hostility towards political rivals. He added that the people of Bihar are seeking employment, educational opportunities, better healthcare, industrial growth, and good governance, not political messaging that deepens social and political divisions.
The RJD leader stressed that public discourse should focus on the future of the state rather than remarks that create confrontation and fear. The controversy has sparked a wider political debate, with the CM's comment drawing sharp reactions from the opposition.
