Nitish Kumar's 'Topi' Controversy: Bihar CM sparks a political row after refusing to wear a traditional cap at a madrasa board event

PATNA, India – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has sparked a major political controversy after a video of him politely refusing to wear a traditional Muslim skullcap at an event went viral. The incident occurred during the centenary celebrations of the Bihar State Madrasa Education Board, where the CM was the chief guest. While his party has defended the move as a sign of his secularism, the opposition has used the opportunity to question his political integrity, especially ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

The video shows an organizer offering the cap to the Chief Minister on stage. Instead of wearing it, Kumar took the cap with both hands and placed it on the head of his cabinet colleague and Minority Affairs Minister, Zama Khan, who was seated next to him. The gesture has been interpreted as a deliberate political signal, leading to a heated debate.

A Shifting Political Symbolism

The incident has gained traction due to Nitish Kumar's past actions. For years, the Bihar CM had consistently worn the skullcap at various Iftar parties and events for the Muslim community, a symbolic gesture meant to demonstrate his secular credentials. He had even famously criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the past by saying that a true Indian leader must wear both a 'topi' (cap) and a 'tilak' (a Hindu mark on the forehead).

Opposition parties were quick to seize on the opportunity. The Bihar Youth Congress posted the video, accusing Kumar of a "new hue" of politics and embracing "Sanghi coordination" behind the scenes. They alleged that the Chief Minister was attempting to appease his new political allies by shunning a symbol of Muslim culture.

Rationale and Fallout

The ruling party has come to the CM’s defense, stating that the controversy is an unnecessary overreaction. They argue that Nitish Kumar’s commitment to secularism is not dependent on wearing a cap and that his developmental work for the community, including initiatives for madrasas and graveyard fencing, speaks for itself.

However, political analysts believe the incident highlights the precarious nature of vote-bank politics. The symbolic gesture is seen as an attempt by the CM to navigate a complex political landscape where both Hindu and Muslim voters are crucial. As the debate rages, the 'topi' controversy is likely to become a key talking point in the election campaign, with both sides using it to rally their respective support bases.