Hijab Controversy in Bihar: Iltija Mufti Slams Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Over Public Event Incident

Patna:
A political controversy has erupted after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was seen interacting with a Muslim woman doctor during a government appointment-letter distribution ceremony, an incident that has now drawn sharp criticism from Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

The issue centres on a video clip in which Nitish Kumar, while handing over an appointment letter to a young Muslim doctor, is seen gently attempting to lift her hijab from her face. Supporters of the Chief Minister claim the gesture appeared parental and well-intentioned, carried out with a smile. However, the visuals have triggered a heated political and social debate.

Iltija Mufti’s Strong Remarks

Reacting to the incident, Iltija Mufti released a 57-second video statement strongly condemning the Chief Minister’s actions. Addressing Nitish Kumar directly, she said that while he handed the appointment letter with one hand, he publicly removed the hijab of a Muslim woman with the other.

She questioned whether the Chief Minister understood the religious and personal significance of the hijab for a Muslim woman, asserting that holding constitutional power does not grant anyone the right to violate personal dignity or religious boundaries.

“Public life also demands a certain sense of decorum. Being a Chief Minister does not give you the authority to treat Muslim women in this manner,” she said, urging him not to repeat such actions in the future.

Call for Apology, Age Remark Sparks Debate

Iltija Mufti further wrote on social media platform X that Nitish Kumar should apologise to the woman concerned. In a controversial remark, she also referred to the Chief Minister’s age, suggesting that if old age was affecting his conduct and judgement, he should consider stepping down from office.

Her post gained traction online, with tens of thousands of views, hundreds of reposts and widespread reactions—both in support and opposition.

Mixed Public Reaction

The statement has sharply divided public opinion. Several users criticised Iltija Mufti’s comments as unnecessary and disrespectful towards a constitutional authority. Others defended the Chief Minister, arguing that showing one’s face at a public function—especially while receiving an official appointment—is reasonable and expected.

Some netizens pointed out that official identity documents such as Aadhaar, passport and PAN cards require uncovered facial photographs, and questioned whether doctors would wear hijabs while treating patients in hospitals.

Supporters of Nitish Kumar maintained that the Chief Minister had first sought consent and acted in a fatherly manner, accusing critics of misinterpreting the gesture and indulging in political propaganda.

Political Undercurrents

The controversy has added fuel to ongoing debates around personal freedom, religious identity, and conduct in public office. While no official statement has yet been issued by the Bihar government on Iltija Mufti’s remarks, the episode continues to dominate political discourse and social media conversations.

As reactions pour in from across the political spectrum, the incident once again highlights how symbolic gestures at public events can quickly escalate into major political flashpoints in an already polarised environment.