Global Outcry as Amnesty International Condemns Bihar CM for Hijab Incident

Global Outcry as Amnesty International Condemns Bihar CM for Hijab Incident
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Amnesty International has issued a forceful condemnation of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar following a viral incident where he publicly pulled down a Muslim doctor’s face veil (niqab) during an official government function. The global rights organization described the act as an “assault on dignity, autonomy, and identity,” calling for immediate accountability for the veteran leader.

The controversy began on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Patna during a ceremony to distribute appointment letters to newly recruited AYUSH doctors. As Dr. Nusrat Parveen approached the stage, video footage captured the Chief Minister gesturing toward her face, asking “What is this?”, and abruptly pulling down her veil. While some officials present were seen laughing, the gesture triggered immediate national and international backlash.

In a formal statement released on December 16, Aakar Patel, Chair of the Board at Amnesty International India, stated that no public official has the right to police a woman’s faith or clothing, warning that such actions normalize discrimination. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) also issued a “strongest condemnation,” labeling the act an infringement on religious freedom.