Tejashwi Yadav, leader of the RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal), criticized Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday for allegedly talking and gesturing during the national anthem, calling it "disrespectful." Yadav expressed his disappointment, saying, "As a 'Bihari,' I feel ashamed."
In a press statement, Yadav said, "Bihar CM Nitish Kumar showed disrespect to the national anthem yesterday, and as a 'Bihari,' I'm ashamed. The Chief Minister should be leading our state, and this incident is truly unfortunate."
Yadav further added, "This is the first time in Indian political history that a Chief Minister has insulted the national anthem. Nitish Kumar owes an apology to the people of India."
He also criticized BJP leaders for being dramatic and questioned the absence of Bihar's two deputy CMs. Yadav called for Nitish Kumar to resign.
RJD MLA and former Chief Minister, Rabri Devi, also joined the criticism, saying, "He (Nitish Kumar) is not mentally stable. If he can't think clearly, he should let his son become Chief Minister."
Earlier, RJD MP Misa Bharti raised concerns about Kumar’s mental and physical well-being, asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to consider who is really in charge of Bihar. She pointed out that at the time of the national anthem, Nitish Kumar seemed unwell. Bharti said, "He disrespects women and children every day. They should really think about who is leading Bihar."
In the meantime, RJD leader Mukesh Raushan protested in Patna, demanding an apology from the Chief Minister. "The CM should apologize for insulting the national anthem. He should be removed from office, and President's Rule should be imposed. He should be charged with treason," Raushan said.
The controversy arose after Tejashwi Yadav shared a video showing Nitish Kumar during an event when the national anthem was being played. In the video, Kumar was seen tapping an official on the shoulder, talking, and smiling while also greeting someone in the audience, all while the anthem was ongoing.
Bihar’s state assembly elections are scheduled for October this year, though the Election Commission of India has not yet announced the exact dates.
