Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar ignited a firestorm of controversy during the winter session of the Bihar Assembly when he used derogatory language to discuss the role of education and women in population control. His comments drew condemnation from opposition leaders and legislators, and a video of his remarks quickly circulated online.
Kumar’s comments were made in the context of emphasizing the importance of girls’ education in addressing population growth. He mentioned a reduction in the fertility rate from 4.3 percent to 2.9 percent, based on a report from the previous year.
The Bihar BJP, while criticizing Kumar’s statements, called them vulgar and likened him to a leader influenced by adult content, advocating for a ban on his double-meaning remarks.
Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav defended Kumar’s remarks, stating that they were related to sex education and should not be misinterpreted. Yadav clarified that the Chief Minister was discussing practical measures to address population growth and that sex education is a part of the curriculum in schools.
Despite this explanation, Kumar’s comments received strong backlash from women legislators, with BJP MLA Nikki Hembrom criticizing his insensitivity and lack of respect for women. She believed that his points could have been conveyed with more dignity and respect.
