The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday, 22 September publicly distanced itself from Bihar Minister Shrawon Kumar's characterisation of the molestation of a minor girl in the state's Jamui district as a 'sporadic incident', while the Indian National Congress (Congress) accused Kumar of insensitivity and demanded accountability. The controversy has intensified political debate over law and order in Bihar and the state government's response to crimes against children.

The Remark That Sparked Outrage

Bihar Minister Shrawon Kumar drew sharp criticism after stating that 'sporadic incidents keep happening' and that the government was 'keeping a watch on them.' The remark was widely condemned as dismissive of a deeply disturbing incident involving the molestation of a minor.

BJP's Strong Pushback

BJP chief spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo was unequivocal in rejecting the minister's framing. 'We completely disagree with his statement. This is absolutely not a sporadic incident. It is a shameful incident and one that sends shivers down the spine,' he said. Shahdeo further noted that 'the victim is a minor and the way people with perverted mentality molested her, this is definitely not a small incident...Others also have daughters and such an incident can happen with anyone.'

Shahdeo also confirmed that Bihar Police had arrested one person and apprehended three minors in connection with the case, and called on society to introspect: 'Three of the four who have been caught are minors, so society should also introspect, how are children being brought up in today's time and age that they are resorting to such things.'

BJP national spokesperson Guru Prakash echoed the concern, saying: 'No, this is not an isolated incident. It is an extremely sensitive matter, and the government is taking the strictest possible action. There is no hesitation in saying that this incident has shaken us deeply. There are some incidents that cannot be justified in any way. Law and order are our priorities, and the people of Bihar have placed their trust in us.' He added that action would be taken stern enough to deter future offenders.

Congress Attacks Kumar's Sensitivity

Congress MP Karamvir Singh Boudh called the incident 'painful' and took aim directly at the minister: 'If Shrawon Kumar calls this incident a small incident, he should take responsibility....Strict action should be taken against such people, and as far as Shrawon Kumar is concerned, I think he should undergo a medical check-up.' Boudh also underlined the broader social impact, noting that such incidents instil fear among girls travelling to schools and colleges.

Congress leader Udit Raj was even more direct: 'If something like this had happened to Shrawon Kumar's family member, he would have felt the pain. Since it is someone else's family, he does not feel it. Secondly, this is the character of ministers in the BJP government...They do not understand the dignity of other people's daughters and sisters.'

Broader Context and What Comes Next

The Jamui molestation case has drawn attention to recurring concerns over child safety in Bihar, particularly for girls commuting to educational institutions. Notably, the fact that three of the four accused are minors raises questions about juvenile justice frameworks and child welfare in the state. Both the BJP and Congress, despite their political differences in this case, have demanded strict exemplary punishment — a rare moment of cross-party alignment on substance, even as they spar over the minister's remarks. The case will now be watched closely for how swiftly the justice system moves and whether the Bihar government issues any formal clarification or censure of Kumar's statement.