Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s Madrasa Visit Stirs Debate Over ‘Topi’ Refusal and Past Comments

A video documenting Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s recent visit to a madrasa has gone viral, primarily due to his refusal to wear a ‘topi’ offered to him. This incident is being widely discussed, especially considering a remark Kumar made in 2013. During that time, the JDU leader advised then Gujarat CM Narendra Modi, suggesting that leaders must be inclusive, even if it means embracing different cultural symbols. “To run the country, you have to take everyone along. At times you will have to wear a topi (cap), at times a tilak (vermillion),” Kumar had stated. The current situation, with Kumar declining to wear the ‘topi,’ has led to considerable discussion online. Critics are pointing out the apparent contradiction, highlighting that Kumar himself has often worn the kurta-topi in the past. The event occurred at an event organized by the Bihar State Madrasa Education Board.