Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Sparks Controversy with Remarks on RJD MLA Rekha Devi’s Criticism

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/24th July 2024

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has once again found himself at the center of controversy due to his remarks made in the state assembly. His latest comment targeted Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Rekha Devi, following her criticism of the Janata Dal (United) government’s policies concerning women. Kumar’s statement, describing Devi as a woman who “doesn’t know anything,” has ignited significant backlash.

During the assembly session, Rekha Devi had criticized the JD(U) government’s approach to women’s issues. In response, Kumar made a provocative statement, questioning Devi’s knowledge and competence despite her being a woman. He remarked, “In logon ke saath jo hain, ye log kabhi kisi mahila ko aage badhaya tha? Are mahila ho, kuchh janti nahi ho. Arre bol rahi hai, kaha se aake? 2005 ke baad ham na mahila ko aage badhaye hain,” which translates to, “With these people, have they ever promoted any woman? She is a woman who knows nothing. She is speaking up, but where is she coming from? After 2005, we have promoted women.”

Kumar’s remarks implied that the RJD has not supported women’s advancement, claiming that it was his own government that took significant steps to promote women’s welfare after coming to power in 2005. His comments reflect a broader pattern of contentious statements that have stirred controversy in the past.

In the face of Kumar’s remarks, Rekha Devi responded by condemning the Chief Minister’s statements as an affront to women’s dignity. She accused the ruling alliance of being anti-women and stated that such insults would not be tolerated by the opposition. Devi’s reaction underscores the sensitive nature of gender-related issues in politics and the impact of Kumar’s remarks on public discourse.

This incident is not an isolated one. Chief Minister Kumar has previously been involved in controversies over his statements. Notably, he once made headlines for a sexually explicit comment during a discussion on population control and sex education. Kumar had controversially claimed that an educated woman could influence her husband to practice withdrawal during ejaculation, a remark that drew significant criticism for its insensitivity and lack of tact.

Kumar’s latest comments, however, have renewed the focus on his controversial style of addressing political opponents and sensitive issues. His remarks on Rekha Devi not only reflect ongoing tensions between the JD(U) and the RJD but also highlight the broader challenges of gender representation and respect in political discourse.

As the situation unfolds, it is evident that Kumar’s statements have ignited a fresh debate on the treatment of women in politics and the implications of such remarks on the political landscape of Bihar. The reactions from both sides of the political spectrum indicate that the controversy surrounding Kumar’s comments will continue to shape discussions in the state’s political arena.