Political Firestorm: Nitish Kumar's Split Verdict on Women's Welfare

Tensions flared in the Bihar Assembly as JD(U) President Sanjay Kumar Jha defended Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's track record on women's welfare against accusations from RJD leader Rabri Devi. The row ignited further debate on dynastic politics, women's rights, and Nitish Kumar's leadership stability.

In a heated exchange in the Bihar Assembly on Wednesday, JD(U) National Working President Sanjay Kumar Jha staunchly defended Chief Minister Nitish Kumar against critical remarks from RJD leader Rabri Devi. Jha asserted that Kumar has achieved 'unprecedented' progress in women's welfare, emphasizing his respect and support for Bihar's women. Despite Rabri Devi's accusations that Kumar disrespects women and engages in intoxicating behavior, Jha dismissed her comments as born out of frustration over anticipated election results.

The Assembly session saw high drama as Tejashwi Yadav and Rabri Devi demanded Nitish Kumar's resignation, accusing him and the ruling NDA of disrespecting women, which led to the RJD MLAs walking out. Rabri Devi accused Nitish Kumar of consuming 'bhaang' and alleged his words reflect manipulations from his political circle. Addressing the Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav further criticized Kumar's governance, suggesting he is unfit to lead and urging him to resign.

The political turmoil intensified after Nitish Kumar hit back at RJD's dynastic politics, highlighting the appointment of Rabri Devi as CM by her husband Lalu Prasad Yadav amid the fodder scam scandal. Kumar questioned RJD's contribution to women's welfare, contrasting it with his government's policies and initiatives favoring women, including the statewide alcohol ban, driven by women's demands.