Zaira Wasim Demands Nitish Kumar Apology for Removing/Pulling Woman's Hijab

- December 16, 2025

'Power Doesn't Grant Permission': Former Bollywood Actress Zaira Wasim Demands 'Unconditional Apology' from Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Over Hijab Incident

Former Bollywood actor Zaira Wasim has vehemently condemned Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for a controversial act captured on video, where he was seen removing the veil (hijab/niqab) from a woman's face during a public function in Patna. Wasim, who famously quit the film industry in 2019 citing her faith, took to social media to demand an immediate and unconditional apology from the CM.

Zaira Wasim

The Incident:

The incident occurred on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the CM's secretariat 'Samvad' in Patna, during a ceremony to distribute appointment letters to over 1,000 newly recruited AYUSH doctors.

The woman involved was identified as Nusrat Parveen, a newly appointed AYUSH doctor. She walked up to the stage wearing a hijab that covered her face (niqab).

The Act by CM Nitish Kumar:

The video footage, which went viral, shows CM Nitish Kumar looking surprised when Nusrat Parveen approached. He was seen remarking, "What is this?" before leaning down from the stage and allegedly pulling the veil down himself.

The Reaction:

The doctor was quickly escorted away by an official, while Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, standing next to Kumar, was seen attempting to restrain the Chief Minister by tugging at his sleeve.

Zaira Wasim's Outrage over CM Nitish Kumar

Zaira Wasim, known for her strong convictions regarding her faith, expressed deep outrage over the incident on her social media platform (X). Her demand for an apology quickly drew public attention.

Key Statement: "A woman's dignity and modesty are not props to toy with. Least of all on a public stage. As a Muslim woman, watching another woman's niqab being pulled at so casually, accompanied by that nonchalant smile, was so infuriating."

Demand for Accountability: She directly addressed the Chief Minister, stating: "Power does not grant permission to violate boundaries. @NitishKumar owes that woman an unconditional apology."

A woman's dignity and modesty are not props to toy with. Least of all on a public stage. As a Muslim woman, watching another woman's niqab being pulled at so casually, accompanied by that nonchalant smile, was so infuriating. Power does not grant permission to violate boundaries. @NitishKumar owes that woman an unconditional apology. — Zaira Wasim on X

Also Read: 'Dangal' Star Zaira Wasim Announces Marriage See - Wedding Pictures

Check Video of Nitish Kumar Pulling the Hijab off a Women's Face

CM Nitish Kumar removes woman's hijab at an event.

Senior journalist Nabila Jamal says "I see a father figure gently and clumsily trying to tell a young doctor that she doesn't need to hide her face, she belongs there with dignity & equal respect" pic.twitter.com/Q1LtDfgEyB
— News Algebra (@NewsAlgebraIND) December 15, 2025

Widespread Political Backlash

The video fueled a massive political backlash against the Bihar Chief Minister.

Opposition Criticism: Opposition parties, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress party, strongly condemned the act, calling it "despicable" and a "vile act." They questioned the Chief Minister's conduct and even his "mental state," demanding his immediate resignation.

Also Read: 'Dangal' Star Zaira Wasim Announces Marriage See - Wedding Pictures

Defense: While the Opposition slammed the move, some leaders, including those from the JD(U), defended the CM, arguing that his larger picture of work for women and minority welfare should not be overshadowed by a "stray visual image."

The incident has reignited debates over personal rights, religious freedom, and the behavior of those in positions of power towards women's bodily autonomy and religious attire.

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