Nitish Kumar Hijab Controversy: Girl Will Join Job, Not Upset, Claims College Principal

Patna: During the government appointment letter distribution ceremony in Patna, the controversy over the removal of the hijab of a girl while giving an appointment letter on behalf of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is not stopping. The video immediately went viral and sparked sharp condemnation and debate on social media.

In reports, the girl is being described as Dr. Nusrat Parveen; she had come to seek an appointment as an AYUSH doctor. Some reports say that the college head has already spoken to her about her intention to join the job.  Earlier her family said that she was feeling hurt and embarrassed due to the incident.

Why did the reaction erupt?

Many considered this a violation of personal and religious dignity. Opposition parties, left and human rights organizations termed it unacceptable and demanded an apology from the Chief Minister. Some public figures and writers have also condemned it, while other political leaders raised aspects such as security/conduct in debates on the reprehensibility of the incident. The controversy has raised questions about religious sensitivity, women's right to privacy and dignity, and the limits of public behavior.

What was the legal and political reaction?

Complaints were filed at various places after the video went viral; there were reactions like demonstrations and burning of effigies at some places. Police have registered FIRs based on some complaints, and cyber monitoring has also been intensified, especially in connection with threatening posts from abroad. Politically, this issue is becoming increasingly heated, and the opposition is making it an issue to usurp power.

What has the international and human rights community said?

Some international human rights groups and foreigners have also expressed concern over the incident and publicly called for the protection of dignity and religious freedom. Such organizations have expressed hope for clear condemnation and compensatory action from civilized leaders so that any such incident in the future does not create discomfort in the society.

What are the possibilities ahead?

The issue is still ongoing—public and legal decisions are still pending on what complaints will be lodged, whether there will be an official apology or clarification, and whether the girl will accept their appointment and join the job. The situation remains politically sensitive; only the government's reaction, investigation results, and statements of the concerned parties will clear the way for the case.