Nitish Kumar Sparks Controversy In Bihar Assembly: ‘You Are A Woman’

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar faced backlash on Wednesday after shouting at women members of the state's assembly. The incident occurred during a protest by Opposition members demanding the inclusion of the state's amended reservation laws in the 9th schedule of the Constitution.

The situation escalated when women MLAs began chanting slogans against Nitish Kumar, accusing him of being anti-reservation. "Nitish Kumar Hai Hai (down with Nitish Kumar)," they shouted. In response, Kumar angrily retorted that women only started receiving their dues after he became chief minister.

Opposition's Reaction

Rabri Devi, a senior RJD leader, criticised Kumar's behaviour, calling it an insult to women. "This has not happened for the first time with the CM. People know that he (CM) has no respect for women. Whatever he has done today in the assembly is a sheer insult to women," she stated.

Kumar directed his ire particularly at Rekha Devi of RJD, saying, "You are a woman. Do you realise that it was only after I assumed power that women started getting their dues in Bihar? You are a woman, (still) you do not know anything. If you say Hai Hai to me, then it's Hai Hai for all."

Accusations and Defence

RJD MLA Rekha Devi also accused Nitish Kumar of insulting her and losing control over his mind. "Whatever Nitish Kumar ji said today in the assembly is insulting to a woman… We are here today because of our leader and party supremo Lalu Prasad and not because of Nitish Kumar. He has insulted a Dalit legislator today in the house. It seems that he (CM) has no control over his mind," she remarked.

Nitish Kumar defended his actions by highlighting his role in increasing quotas for SC, ST, OBCs, and extremely backward classes through a caste survey initiated at his instance. He claimed this was evidence of his commitment to social justice.

Political Fallout

The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Bihar's main Opposition party, condemned Kumar's outburst as disrespectful towards women. They alleged that leaders of the ruling NDA lack respect for women and contrasted this with their own INDIA bloc leaders who they claim revere women.

This incident adds to previous criticisms against Nitish Kumar regarding his treatment of women. The RJD's strong reaction underscores ongoing tensions between the ruling party and Opposition in Bihar's political landscape.

Nitish Kumar's recent confrontation with female MLAs highlights deep-seated issues within Bihar's political arena concerning gender respect and reservation policies. The fallout from this event continues to shape public perception and political dynamics in the state.