A fresh incident described as Islamophobic has sparked outrage in India after a Muslim woman doctor’s niqab was allegedly forcibly removed during a public event in Bihar.
The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition parties and social media users alike.
According to the report, the incident took place in Patna, where a Muslim woman doctor, Nusrat Parveen, had arrived to collect her official appointment letter. It is alleged that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar publicly removed her niqab while handing over the letter.
The act has been described as humiliating and inappropriate, particularly given the chief minister’s high constitutional position.
Islamophobia allegations against Modi allies
The incident has been framed by critics as another example of Islamophobia in India, with allegations that allies of the Modi government are increasingly humiliating Muslim women in public. Critics claim that even women’s dignity and honor are no longer safe under the prevailing political climate.
The report accuses proponents of Hindutva ideology of forcibly imposing decisions regarding women’s clothing, including hijab and niqab.
Congress demands Nitish Kumar’s resignation
The Indian National Congress reacted strongly, terming the incident vile, shameful, and unacceptable. The party demanded the immediate resignation of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, stating that such conduct by a senior leader cannot be justified under any circumstances.
Congress leaders said the act reflects a deeply troubling mindset toward minorities and women.
Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) member Akbar Owaisi also strongly condemned the alleged incident. He stated that this was not an isolated event but a reflection of broader thinking where women’s clothing choices are forcibly dictated.
Owaisi said the incident highlights an environment in which hostility toward Muslims has become normalized.
Social media backlash grows
Following reports of the incident, social media users expressed widespread anger, calling the act shameful and demanding Nitish Kumar’s immediate resignation. Many users described the episode as a disturbing example of public humiliation of Muslim women.
The incident has intensified debate around religious freedom, women’s rights, and rising intolerance in India.
