Bihar Legislative Council Erupts Over National Anthem Debate Involving Nitish Kumar

Synopsis

The Bihar Legislative Council witnessed a heated debate over the National Anthem, instigated by RJD MLC Sunil Singh's accusations against Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for allegedly disrespecting the anthem. The incident has intensified political tensions ahead of the upcoming elections.

Key Takeaways

Sunil Singh accuses Nitish Kumar of disrespecting the National Anthem.
The incident occurred during the anthem on March 20.
Council Chairman dismisses the demand for a debate.
Opposition parties are intensifying their attacks ahead of 2025 elections.
Political tensions in Bihar are escalating due to this controversy.

Patna, March 24 (NationPress) The controversy surrounding the National Anthem erupted in the Bihar Legislative Council on Monday when RJD MLC Sunil Singh accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of showing disrespect towards the anthem.

During the anthem on March 20, CM Nitish Kumar was observed conversing with his Principal Secretary Deepak Kumar as the anthem played.

Gesturing and tapping Deepak Kumar made him visibly uneasy. Nitish Kumar was also seen laughing and folding his hands to greet someone mid-anthem.

During the question hour in the Legislative Council on Monday, Singh raised the issue, demanding a discussion and alleging that the Chief Minister's actions had damaged the state's reputation.

Sunil Singh claimed that Nitish Kumar had insulted the National Anthem, referencing a viral video from March 20, where the CM was reportedly behaving inappropriately during the anthem. He urged the Council to permit a debate on the subject, labeling it a matter of state dignity.

In response, Council Chairman Awadhesh Narain Singh firmly dismissed the call for discussion, asserting that it was an attempt to malign Bihar.

"Bihar's reputation has been enhanced after significant efforts. Do you wish to tarnish it once more?" the Chairman questioned.

He categorically ruled out any further debate on the issue. Sunil Singh retorted to the Council’s chairman, stating, "It is not me but Nitish Kumar who is damaging Bihar’s reputation by disrespecting the National Anthem."

This is not the first instance this issue has ignited controversy. On Friday, both the Legislative Assembly and the Council experienced a significant uproar from RJD, Congress, and Left party legislators demanding an apology from Nitish Kumar.

The protests led to the adjournment of the House. The opposition has been persistently targeting Nitish Kumar since the video emerged, transforming it into a crucial political flashpoint in Bihar.

As the 2025 Assembly elections draw closer, such controversies are likely to escalate the political rivalry between the ruling and opposition parties.