Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday stirred a political controversy with a veiled remark aimed at the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) while discussing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in policing and traffic management in the state capital.
AI cameras for traffic management
During a meeting with senior police officers, Choudhary highlighted the installation of advanced AI cameras at multiple locations in Patna for traffic management. He said, “We have installed advanced AI cameras for traffic management at many locations in Patna. These systems are incredibly precise. In fact, if we instruct the AI to catch those wearing a green ‘gamchha’, the AI will catch them instantly.”
The remark drew murmurs and laughter from the audience, as the green ‘gamchha’ is widely associated with RJD workers and senior leaders, including former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav. In 2021, RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav had asked party workers to wear green caps and carry green ‘gamchhas’ as the party’s official identity symbol.
CM's clarification
After a brief pause, Choudhary added, “I am not pointing fingers at anyone. My message is simple: for me, a criminal has no caste, no community, and no political affiliation. Law enforcement must be blind to privilege.” He emphasized that the technology would be used impartially to enforce law and order.
Addressing senior police officers, he said, “The police have my complete and open authorization to clean up the streets. Use this technology to enforce order, without fear or favour.” The statement was seen as a strong message to the police to act independently and without bias.
Political implications
The comment has sparked a political debate, with the RJD accusing the CM of using the platform to target the opposition. RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari said, “The CM’s remark shows his mindset. Instead of focusing on development, he is busy making sarcastic comments against the opposition.”
However, ruling party leaders defended the CM, stating that his words were taken out of context. BJP spokesperson Nikhil Anand said, “The CM clearly stated that no criminal will be spared, irrespective of their political affiliation. The RJD should not feel targeted unless they have something to hide.”
The incident highlights the growing use of AI in governance and the political sensitivities surrounding it. As Patna moves towards smarter traffic management, the political undercurrents remain hard to ignore.
