Thu Mar 20 16:27:07 UTC 2025: **Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Faces Backlash for Alleged National Anthem Disrespect**

Patna, Bihar – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is facing widespread criticism after a video surfaced showing him allegedly conversing and laughing with his Principal Secretary, Deepak Kumar, during the playing of the national anthem at the opening ceremony of the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 in Patna.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Pataliputra Indoor Stadium, has sparked outrage among opposition parties and citizens alike. The video shows Kumar engaging with Kumar while the anthem played, prompting accusations of disrespect.

Opposition leaders from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have strongly condemned Kumar’s actions. RJD chief and former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his anger, stating, “Insult to the national anthem will not be tolerated by India. People of Bihar, is there still anything left?”

Former Deputy Chief Minister and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also criticized Kumar, questioning his fitness for office and highlighting what he called a pattern of disrespectful behavior. He alluded to previous incidents, including Kumar clapping during Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary.

RJD Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Yadav echoed these sentiments, raising concerns about Kumar’s apparent lack of awareness and respect for the nation and its symbols.

The Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025, currently underway in Patna, features 300 players and support staff from 21 countries. This latest controversy follows previous incidents involving Kumar, including a purported sexist remark and an attempt to touch Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s feet last year, further fueling criticism against the Chief Minister.

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