New Delhi- The National Federation of Youth Movement (NFYM) strongly condemns the recent incident involving the Chief Minister of Bihar, Mr. Nitish Kumar, in which he was seen pulling the niqab of a Muslim woman.
In a statement issued to the media, NFYM Chairman Masihuzzama Ansari said that the incident is not only unfortunate but also constitutes a serious assault on the dignity and self-respect of a woman. He demanded that the National Commission for Women take immediate cognizance of the matter and issue a notice to the Chief Minister.
The NFYM Chairman stated that individuals holding constitutional positions are expected to uphold dignity, sensitivity, and responsible conduct. Such incidents are completely contrary to democratic values, constitutional propriety, and social decorum.
He further noted that, in response to this incident, some individuals are claiming that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is mentally unwell. If that is indeed the case, he should refrain from holding a constitutional office or participating in public gatherings. The argument of mental illness cannot, under any circumstances, be used as a justification for inappropriate behavior or actions.
NFYM earnestly urges the National Commission for Women to view this incident as an attack on a woman’s dignity and identity, understand its seriousness, and ensure appropriate action without any discrimination.
NFYM makes it clear that no compromise is acceptable when it comes to the respect, dignity, and rights of women.
At the same time, it must be taken very seriously that over the past few years, numerous incidents have continuously come to light involving Muslims, other minority communities, vulnerable sections, and marginalized groups. The increasing number of such cases—especially those involving women and children, whether in educational institutions or other areas of society—is a matter of grave concern.
In many such cases, the argument of mental imbalance is repeatedly presented. However, using mental illness as a shield to evade judicial and social accountability in such crimes is detrimental to both the justice system and democratic values.
If a person is genuinely mentally unfit, they should not be allowed to hold any public or constitutional office. It is neither appropriate nor acceptable for a mentally unstable individual to discharge public responsibilities.
A similar lenient approach was adopted by the law enforcement system in cases related to the “Sulli Deals” and “Bulli Bai” apps, where Muslim women were subjected to online “auctions.” The accused were granted bail on the grounds of their careers and by adopting a so-called “fatherly” attitude toward them.
Likewise, the incident of 31 July 2023, in which an RPF constable killed three Muslims on a superfast express train traveling from Jaipur to Mumbai, is also before us, where mental illness was later cited as a defense.
NFYM believes that such incidents should not be viewed as merely individual acts, but as matters of social and institutional responsibility. Strict action, in accordance with the law and without any discrimination, must be ensured against those found guilty.
