Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati has called upon Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to view the ongoing controversy regarding the removal of a Muslim woman doctor's hijab during a public function in the right perspective and express remorse for the act. The incident, which occurred during a ceremony to distribute appointment letters to doctors, has sparked significant debate.
Mayawati's Direct Appeal to Nitish Kumar
In a post on social media platform X on Saturday, Mayawati stated that the issue was becoming increasingly controversial, especially due to statements made by ministers, which she described as sad and unfortunate. She emphasized that the matter, prima facie related to women's safety and dignity, should have been resolved swiftly with the Chief Minister's direct intervention.
"It would be good if the CM viewed this incident in its proper perspective, expressed remorse, and attempted to end this increasingly bitter controversy," the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister added. She also pointed to reports of similar incidents occurring in other places, underscoring the need for a decisive response.
Criticism of UP Assembly and Parliament Sessions
Shifting focus to her home state, Mayawati criticized the brief winter session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly. She alleged that the session, like previous ones, was mired in debates between the ruling party and the opposition while avoiding issues of public interest and welfare.
"It would have been better if the government had been serious about addressing the farmers' problem, and other public welfare issues," she remarked. She also noted that the winter session of Parliament ended without discussing pressing national issues, including the severe air pollution problem in Delhi.
Other Issues Raised: Bahraich Police and Bangladesh
Mayawati also addressed the controversy in Bahraich, where police personnel were seen saluting a ‘katha vachak’ during a parade, an act she said deviated from established rules and traditions. "Police parades and salutes have their own traditions, rules, decorum, discipline, and sanctity, which should never be compromised," she asserted. She noted that the Director General of Police (DGP) had taken cognizance and sought an explanation, with the public awaiting concrete action.
On the international front, the BSP chief expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, stating that anti-India activities were on the rise. She urged the central government to take cognizance of the matter and formulate a long-term policy to address the challenges emerging from the neighboring country.
