Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Sanjay Nishad triggered widespread outrage after making controversial remarks while defending Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over a recent incident involving a woman doctor’s hijab at a public event in Patna.
Speaking to a local news channel, Nishad made a crude comparison while responding to criticism of Kumar’s actions, prompting sharp reactions from opposition parties and civil society groups.
Opposition Demands Action
Following Nishad’s remarks, Samajwadi Party leader Sumaiya Rana filed a complaint seeking registration of an FIR and legal action against the minister.
Samajwadi Party MP from Kairana, Iqra Hasan, strongly criticised both the original incident and Nishad’s defence of it, stating that pulling a woman’s hijab or dupatta violates personal dignity and sends a dangerous message when done by those in positions of power.
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She stressed that the issue was not religious but concerned a woman’s autonomy and dignity, adding that constitutional offices carry a responsibility to uphold decorum.
Leaders Across Parties Condemn Remarks
Former Congress MLA Aslam Shaikh described Nishad’s comments as “vile” and “misogynistic,” demanding his resignation and immediate action.
Religious leaders also weighed in. Maulana Qari Ishaq Gora of Saharanpur said the matter went beyond politics or religion and was fundamentally about women’s honour, privacy, and self-respect.
Minister Issues Clarification
Amid growing backlash, Sanjay Nishad issued a clarification, stating that his remarks were made casually in his local Bhojpuri dialect and carried no ill intent toward any woman, religion, or community.
“There was no intention to insult anyone. My statement has been misunderstood,” he said.
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Row Over Nitish Kumar’s Conduct
The controversy originated after a video went viral showing Nitish Kumar, during a government function in Patna, pulling down the hijab of an AYUSH doctor while handing her a certificate.
The incident sparked criticism from opposition leaders, some of whom questioned the chief minister’s conduct and judgment, calling for accountability and sensitivity from holders of constitutional office.
