A simple event to give job letters to new doctors in Bihar turned into a big controversy. On December 15, 2025, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was handing appointment letters to AYUSH doctors at his residence in Patna. When a young Muslim doctor named Nusrat Parveen came on stage wearing a niqab, the CM pulled it down. This act has hurt many people and started talks about women’s respect, religious freedom, and personal choice.
What Happened at the Event?
The programme was to give jobs to 1,283 AYUSH doctors who work in fields like Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Ten doctors got their letters directly from Nitish Kumar on stage. Nusrat Parveen was one of them. She wore a niqab, which covers the face, as part of her faith.
As she took the letter, the CM asked, “What is this?” When told it was a hijab or niqab, he pulled it down himself. Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary tried to stop him by pulling his sleeve. Some people on stage laughed, and the doctor looked uncomfortable. An official quickly moved her off the stage.
The video of this moment went viral on social media. Opposition parties shared it and called it wrong.
How Nusrat Parveen Felt and Her Decision
Nusrat Parveen comes from Kolkata. Her brother, a professor there, spoke to the media. He said his sister felt deeply hurt and insulted in front of everyone. “So many people were there. Some laughed. For a girl, it felt like a big insult,” she told her family.
At first, reports said she decided not to join the job starting December 20. The family was trying to convince her, saying the mistake was not hers. Later, an official from Government Tibbi College said the family confirmed she will join duty. But the incident has left her shaken.
Strong Reactions from Leaders and People
Opposition parties like RJD and Congress attacked Nitish Kumar sharply. RJD posted the video and asked if his mental health was okay or if he had changed. Congress called it a “vile act” and said he should resign.
Former actor Zaira Wasim wrote on social media: “A woman’s dignity and modesty are not props to toy with – least of all on a public stage. Power does not grant permission to violate boundaries. Nitish Kumar owes that woman an unconditional apology.”
Lyricist Javed Akhtar said he is against purdah himself but cannot accept this act. “I condemn it in very strong words. Mr Nitish Kumar owes an unconditional apology to the lady.”
Even from Kashmir, leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Iltija Mufti spoke out. Mehbooba said it was shocking and perhaps time for him to step down. Protests happened in places like Mumbai and Srinagar.
What Supporters of Nitish Kumar Said
Some leaders from NDA defended the CM. Minority Affairs Minister Zama Khan called it a “fatherly” act of love towards a Muslim daughter. He said Nitish wanted to show how girls from minority are progressing.
Union Minister Giriraj Singh said there was nothing wrong. He compared it to showing face for passport or airport. “Nitish ji acted as a guardian. If she refuses the job or goes to hell, that’s her choice.”
No direct statement has come from Nitish Kumar or his office yet. His party JD(U) said he has always supported minorities.
Why This Incident Matters More
Many see this as a question of consent. No one should touch a woman’s clothes without permission, especially in public. For Muslim women, niqab is a personal and religious choice.
Groups like Amnesty International called it an assault on dignity and autonomy. It sends a wrong message if a leader does this.
In Bihar, where women’s safety and empowerment are big issues, this has raised worries. Nitish Kumar is known for work on women like banning alcohol and reserving jobs for them. But this act has put questions on that image.
Broader Talk on Hijab and Rights in India
Hijab debates have happened before, like in Karnataka schools. Courts have said women have right to wear what they want as part of freedom.
Here, the issue is not banning but forcing to remove. Many say power should respect personal boundaries.
Social media is full of #ApologiseNitish and calls for respect to women’s choice.
What Could Happen Next
As of December 20, 2025, Nusrat Parveen is expected to join duty. But the hurt may stay. Calls for apology continue from many sides.
This incident shows how small acts can start big talks on respect, faith, and women’s rights in our country. People hope leaders learn to be more careful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly happened with Nitish Kumar and the doctor?
On December 15, 2025, during an AYUSH doctors’ appointment event in Patna, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar pulled down the niqab of doctor Nusrat Parveen while giving her the job letter. He asked what it was and then removed it himself.
Who is Nusrat Parveen?
She is a newly appointed AYUSH doctor, likely in Unani field, from Kolkata. She was set to join Bihar government service on December 20.
Did Nusrat Parveen refuse the job?
Early reports said she was too hurt and decided not to join. Her brother said family was convincing her. Later, a college official said she will join duty.
Why are people angry?
Many feel it was wrong to touch her veil without permission. It hurt her dignity in public. Opposition calls it disrespect to women and Muslims.
What did Javed Akhtar say?
He said he is against purdah but strongly condemns this act. Nitish Kumar should give an unconditional apology.
How did Giriraj Singh defend it?
He said Nitish acted like a guardian for identity check. Nothing wrong, like showing face for official work.
Has Nitish Kumar apologised?
No official apology or statement from him or his office as yet.
Were there protests?
Yes, in places like Mumbai by AIMIM, and in Kashmir by PDP and others. Complaints filed in police too.