By Vishwapati
Patna: During Friday’s session of the Bihar legislature, the opposition caused a major uproar, leading to disruptions that lasted almost the entire day. The chaos stemmed from allegations that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had disrespected the national anthem. In protest, former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, along with her MLC members, staged a demonstration at the Legislative Council Portico. She demanded an apology from the Chief Minister for the incident.
Outside the Assembly, Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav launched a fierce attack on the government. Inside the House, opposition MLAs created a scene by gathering near the well, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings until 4 pm.
Meanwhile, in the Legislative Council, the opposition accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of “improper conduct” during the national anthem and pressed the government for an explanation. The Council also witnessed significant disruptions. Rabri Devi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Council, made a bold statement, suggesting that if the Chief Minister’s mental state is unstable, he should step down and hand over the position to his son. She also demanded his resignation, adding a taunt that Nitish Kumar should consider making his son the Chief Minister.
What sparked the national anthem controversy?
The row began on Thursday when Chief Minister Nitish Kumar arrived to inaugurate the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 at the Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna. The national anthem was scheduled to play after the Chief Minister took the stage, but he halted it before it began. Instead, he gestured from the stage, saying, “First, let’s take a round of the stadium, then start it.” Following his signal, Minister Vijay Chaudhary stopped the anthem, and Nitish Kumar proceeded to tour the stadium.
Upon his return, the national anthem was played again. However, the Chief Minister appeared distracted, waving and greeting people instead of standing in attention. Principal Secretary Deepak Kumar tried to signal the Chief Minister to stand respectfully, but Nitish Kumar ignored the gesture and continued interacting with journalists.
This incident, along with other recent behaviour, has raised concerns about the Chief Minister’s mental state. Many are questioning his ability to lead, with some suggesting he requires proper medical attention. The ongoing controversy has left Bihar’s political scene in turmoil, with opposition leaders intensifying their demands for accountability.
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(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
