Legal Action Initiated Against Nitish Kumar Over National Anthem Incident
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Synopsis
A legal complaint has been filed against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after he allegedly disrespected the national anthem during a public event. The incident has sparked outrage and demands for his resignation from opposition leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Nitish Kumar faced legal action for alleged disrespect toward the national anthem.
- The incident occurred at the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 inauguration.
- Opposition leaders are demanding a public apology and his resignation.
- The court will evaluate the merit of the complaint.
- Political tensions are escalating in Bihar.
Patna, March 21 (NationPress) Following the reported unusual behavior of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during the national anthem, a legal petition was submitted against him at the CJM Court in Muzaffarpur on Friday.
The advocates Suraj Kumar and Ajay Ranjan who filed the case alleged that Kumar exhibited disrespect toward the national anthem during the inauguration of the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 in Patna on Thursday.
The complainants contended that insulting the national anthem is a punishable offense according to Indian law.
During the anthem, CM Nitish Kumar was observed conversing with his Principal Secretary, Deepak Kumar, while the anthem was being played.
His gestures and tapping seemed to make Deepak Kumar visibly uneasy. Additionally, Nitish Kumar was seen laughing and greeting someone mid-way through the anthem.
A video capturing this moment has circulated widely on social media, igniting significant discussions.
This incident has provoked outrage in the Bihar Legislative Assembly and public demonstrations by opposition parties. Leaders such as Tejashwi Yadav and Rabri Devi have called for a public apology and Nitish Kumar's resignation.
According to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, Section 3, disrespecting the national anthem can result in a sentence of up to 3 years in prison, a fine, or both.
Actions such as talking, laughing, or being inattentive during the anthem fall under the category of disrespect and are considered punishable.
Under Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, every citizen is required to respect the national anthem and flag.
The court will assess whether the complaint is valid for further legal action. Political tensions are likely to heighten, with the opposition planning state-wide protests on Saturday. If Nitish Kumar does not issue a public apology, they intend to march to Raj Bhawan on Sunday.
Earlier in the day, opposition leaders erupted in chaos over the matter, disrupting the sessions of the Bihar Assembly and Council.
