Complaint Filed Over UP Minister Sanjay Nishad’s Remarks on Hijab Incident

A controversy erupted on Wednesday after Uttar Pradesh minister and Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad made remarks about Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar allegedly pulling a woman’s hijab during a public event. A Samajwadi Party leader has filed a police complaint in Lucknow, accusing Nishad’s comments of being offensive and inappropriate.

Responding to the backlash, Nishad said his statement was misunderstood and taken out of context. He claimed the remark, originally made in Hindi, lost its intended meaning during translation and was never meant to insult women or any community. He described the comment as casual and light-hearted, adding that if anyone felt offended, he was willing to withdraw his words.

The state fisheries minister explained that conversational styles differ across regions, particularly in Bhojpuri-speaking areas, and insisted there was no malicious intent behind his words. He also stated that Nitish Kumar had only briefly lifted the veil to verify the beneficiary of a government scheme, and that officials should have ensured better arrangements at the event.

Opposition parties strongly criticised Nishad. Congress leaders described the remark as anti-women, while the Samajwadi Party and Aam Aadmi Party demanded an unconditional apology and called the statement crude and disrespectful. The opposition alleged that such comments reflect a deeper insensitivity towards women.

The issue gained traction on social media, with widespread condemnation of the minister’s remarks. Following the outrage, SP spokesperson Sumaiyya Rana lodged a written complaint at the Kaisarbagh police station, seeking legal action against both Nishad and the Bihar chief minister. Police officials confirmed that the matter is under investigation and further action will be taken after inquiry.