Javed Akhtar CONDEMNS Bihar CM Nitish Kumar pulling down lady doctor's hijab: 'Against concept of Parda but..'

A controversy erupted in Bihar after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was seen pulling down a woman doctor’s hijab during a public function in Patna. The incident took place at an official ceremony where the Chief Minister was distributing certificates to AYUSH doctors. A video from the event soon began circulating widely on social media, showing Kumar gesturing at the doctor and briefly tugging at her head covering, an act that many viewers described as inappropriate and disrespectful. The visuals sparked immediate outrage, with several people questioning the violation of personal space and dignity.

Amid the growing backlash, veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar emerged as one of the most prominent voices condemning the incident. Taking to X on Thursday December 18, Akhtar made it clear that personal beliefs cannot justify such conduct. While reiterating his long held ideological opposition to the concept of parda, he stressed that this does not excuse interfering with a woman’s autonomy. He also demanded a public apology from the Bihar Chief Minister. Akhtar wrote, 'Every one who knows me even in the most cursory manner knows how much I am against the traditional concept of Parda but it doesn’t mean that by any stretch of imagination I can accept what Mr Nitish Kumar has done to a Muslim lady doctor. I condemn it in very strong words. Mr Nitish Kumar owes an unconditional apology to the lady.'

Akhtar is not alone in expressing disapproval. Stand up comedian Munawar Faruqui also criticised the incident, calling it deeply insensitive and highlighting the importance of consent and respect, especially from those in positions of power. Former actor Zaira Wasim echoed similar sentiments, stating that no individual has the right to dictate how a woman chooses to dress or practice her faith. Rakhi Sawant too reacted strongly, questioning how such behaviour could occur at a formal public event and urging leaders to set an example.

The incident has since reignited conversations around personal freedom, religious expression and accountability of public figures. As criticism continues to pour in from across the country, many are waiting to see whether the Bihar Chief Minister will address the issue and offer the apology that several voices, including Javed Akhtar, have firmly demanded.