Nitish Kumar’s Gesture at PM’s Event Fuels Fresh Speculation
Opposition renews attack on Bihar CM after his folded-hands posture during PM Modi-led ITI toppers’ event
- Nitish Kumar sat with folded hands for nearly a minute at ITI convocation.
- Opposition cites the gesture as fresh proof of “unstable behaviour.”
- Past controversies include talking during national anthem and placing sapling on officer’s head.
- JD(U) defends him, Opposition led by RJD sharpens attacks ahead of polls.
- Kumar met 400 JD(U) workers on Friday to discuss election strategy.
GG News Bureau
Patna, 4th Oct: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday virtually attended a convocation ceremony for ITI toppers, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented certificates under the Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh 2025.
However, Kumar drew attention after he sat with his hands folded for nearly a minute while another leader read out details of the programme. The chief minister slightly shook his hands, looked sideways briefly, and even smiled at one point — gestures that have once again triggered questions about his health and composure.
Opposition parties, particularly the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), have repeatedly accused Kumar of displaying “unstable and erratic” behaviour in public. With assembly elections around the corner, his latest appearance is expected to intensify political attacks.
Earlier this year, Kumar faced backlash after being caught on camera laughing and talking during the national anthem at a sports event in Patna. His Principal Secretary Deepak Kumar was seen tugging at the chief minister’s sleeves to make him stay still. In another incident, he walked off the dais during the anthem to greet participants.
In March, Kumar also sparked controversy by placing his arm around a woman’s shoulder at a state event, provoking sharp criticism from the RJD. While the JD(U) and its ally BJP have defended him, rivals continue to question his fitness to lead the state.
Kumar has long been known for his spontaneous and unconventional gestures. In May, he surprised many when he placed a sapling on an officer’s head during a welcome ceremony, drawing both amusement and criticism. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has frequently used such instances to target him.
Despite Opposition attacks, Kumar has remained politically active. Just a day earlier, he met over 400 JD(U) workers at his Patna residence to strategise for the upcoming assembly polls. Speculation also continues about the possible political entry of his son, Nishant Kumar, though the chief minister has kept silent on the matter.
As Bihar heads into a high-stakes election, Kumar’s health and public conduct are likely to remain flashpoints in the bitter political battle ahead.
