Has CM Nitish Kumar's Security Increased Due to Hijab Controversy?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Nitish Kumar's security has been tightened due to threats.
- The controversy centers around a hijab removal incident.
- A gangster's video threatening the Chief Minister has emerged.
- Stricter access protocols are now in place for meetings with the Chief Minister.
- The incident has sparked widespread political debate.
Patna, Dec 18 (NationPress) The security of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has been notably enhanced in response to a fallout during an appointment letter distribution ceremony for AYUSH doctors, where he reportedly removed the hijab of a Muslim woman doctor.
Government insiders reveal that this decision follows threats directed at the Chief Minister, including one purportedly from an overseas gangster.
As a result, Kumar will now be under a more stringent security protocol, with access limited to a select few. This move comes after intelligence reports indicated potential threats from anti-social and criminal factions, ignited by widespread political and social reactions following the incident.
Reports indicate that a Pakistani gangster named Shahzad Bhatti disseminated a video threatening the Bihar Chief Minister. Consequently, the Bihar Police have filed an FIR and launched an investigation into the threats.
Intelligence agencies have provided security-related information to state police. Following a high-level assessment, the Director General of Police (DGP) and senior officials have decided to bolster Nitish Kumar's security measures.
The Chief Minister's security is overseen by the Special Security Group (SSG), a division of the Bihar Police, which has now been instructed to further intensify its protective strategies. District Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) across Bihar have also received specific directives.
According to police sources, only ministers and a limited number of senior officials will be permitted to approach the Chief Minister. Any special meeting requests will necessitate prior approval and comprehensive background checks.
Enhanced security protocols will be enacted during visits to sensitive locations, and police will exercise greater caution regarding the Chief Minister’s movements.
Meanwhile, the hijab-related incident continues to elicit strong responses.
Maulana Sajjad Nomani, spokesperson for the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, stated that Bihar Minister Jama Khan and JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar should resign from the party if they wish to express solidarity with the Muslim community.
Prominent lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar condemned the incident, demanding an unconditional apology from the Chief Minister.
In a post on X, Akhtar expressed, "While I oppose the practice of veiling, I cannot condone what Nitish Kumar did to a Muslim woman doctor. I strongly condemn it and demand an unconditional apology."
Conversely, NDA leaders have defended Nitish Kumar.
Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh supported the Chief Minister’s actions, asserting that revealing one’s face for official verification is customary.
"This is India, not Pakistan. Identity checks are mandatory when collecting a passport or boarding a flight. Nitish Kumar acted as a guardian and did nothing wrong," Singh stated.
Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi also expressed his support for the Chief Minister.
The incident, along with political reactions and security developments, has heightened the debate in Bihar, drawing national attention.