Javed Akhtar demands unconditional apology from Bihar CM Nitish Kumar over the hijab incident

Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has strongly condemned Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar following a viral incident in which the senior politician was seen pulling down the hijab of a Muslim woman doctor at a government college event, and has demanded that he tender an unconditional apology to the woman affected.

The controversy stems from a video that circulated widely on social media showing Nitish Kumar at an official ceremony in Patna, where appointment letters were being handed out to newly recruited AYUSH doctors.

In the clip, the Chief Minister is seen engaging with a female doctor wearing a hijab and then abruptly reaching out to lower her headscarf, exposing her face, before she can react. The footage quickly sparked public outrage and political backlash nationwide.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Javed Akhtar said that while he has long been vocal about his personal opposition to the traditional practice of pardah or veil, this does not justify interfering with a woman’s choice or dignity. "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."
Javed Akhtar’s remarks align with condemnation from other public figures, including former actress Zaira Wasim, who also demanded an apology, calling the act a violation of dignity and modesty.

The incident has triggered a broader discussion about personal freedom, religious sensitivity, and the conduct expected from public office holders. Opposition leaders have criticised Kumar’s act, with some demanding his resignation. At the same time, supporters have defended him, arguing that official procedures sometimes require face visibility comments that have added fuel to the debate.