A video showing Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar smiling and conversing during the National Anthem at a sporting event in Patna has sparked a significant political uproar. Rabri Devi, the former Chief Minister of Bihar, labeled the JD(U) leader as “mentally unfit,” whereas the party supported Nitish Kumar, stating that the Opposition’s comments were driven by political motives.
While the anthem played during the inauguration of the SepakTakraw World Cup at Pataliputra Sports Complex, Kumar was observed conversing with his Principal Secretary, Deepak Kumar, rather than standing at attention. He patted the officer’s shoulder, grinned, and folded his hands in a namaskar gesture towards a member of the audience.
Deepak Kumar, looking uncomfortable, attempted to grab the Chief Minister’s sleeve to make him remain still, but Kumar persisted with his conversation.
The video rapidly gained popularity, prompting strong rebukes from opposition figures and igniting protests both within and outside the Bihar Assembly on Friday.
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Opposition Leader in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, strongly condemned the incident, asserting that it was an affront to both the nation and the state.
“Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar showed disrespect towards the national anthem, and as a Bihari, I am embarrassed.” This is the first occasion in Indian politics where a Chief Minister has acted in this manner. He ought to express regret to the country and step down,” he stated.
Yadav also challenged Kumar’s mental and physical well-being, saying, “You can’t remain stable for even a few seconds.” Your unconscious condition in this situation is a serious issue for the state. “Please refrain from insulting Bihar repeatedly like this.”
Outside the residence, RJD MP Misa Bharti intensified the critique, stating, “Bihar is a large state, yet our CM is mentally unstable. He ought to step down. Observing his actions, it appears he is either not feeling well or intentionally behaving this way.”
