Thu Mar 20 18:01:00 UTC 2025: ## Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Faces Backlash for Conduct During National Anthem

**Patna, Bihar –** Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is facing intense criticism after a video surfaced showing him laughing and conversing during the playing of the national anthem at a recent sports event in Patna. The incident, which occurred today, sparked outrage among opposition leaders, who accused Kumar of disrespecting both the nation and the state.

The video shows Kumar chatting and laughing with his Principal Secretary, Deepak Kumar, while the anthem played. Deepak Kumar is seen attempting to subtly restrain the Chief Minister. Kumar also engaged with someone in the audience, smiling and offering a “Namaste.”

Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav, a former deputy to Kumar, led the charge against the Chief Minister on X (formerly Twitter). Yadav’s post condemned Kumar’s actions, referencing previous instances of what he deemed disrespectful behavior, including clapping during Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary. Yadav accused Kumar of lacking the mental and physical stability required for his position. His father, Lalu Prasad Yadav, also shared the video, questioning if anything positive remained for Bihar.

While Kumar and his Janata Dal United party have yet to officially respond, sources suggest a public apology may be forthcoming to quell the escalating controversy within the state assembly.

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, an ally of Kumar within the NDA, defended the Chief Minister, claiming that critics were those who had previously damaged Bihar’s reputation and that Kumar had elevated the state’s international standing.

This is not the first time Kumar has drawn criticism for his conduct during solemn events. In January, he was seen clapping after paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary. The ongoing controversy is likely to further fuel political tensions in Bihar.

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