Lalu Yadav’s "Nayan sekne ja rahe hain" remark on Nitish Kumar’s women’s rally triggers outrage across parties

RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav has sparked a political controversy with his sexist comment on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s upcoming "Mahila Samvad Yatra." When asked about the mid-December statewide women’s rally, Lalu Yadav remarked, "Nayan sekne ja rahe hain" (he is going to ogle at women). His comment was directed at Nitish Kumar’s involvement in the rally, which aims to engage with women across the state. The remark has been met with backlash from various political leaders, who criticized it as inappropriate and disrespectful.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha strongly condemned Lalu’s statement, describing it as unfit for someone in a constitutional role. He stated, "Laluji is on the last stage. He is unable to understand things and says anything. Such language does not suit a person sitting on a constitutional position." Sinha also accused Lalu Yadav and his party of damaging the image of Bihar. Similarly, Bihar Minister Ashok Chaudhary called Lalu’s remarks an attack on the dignity of Bihar, pointing out the contrast between his words and his personal life, as Lalu has seven daughters and several women leaders in his own party.

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain also reacted to Lalu’s comment, questioning the former CM’s relationship with Nitish Kumar, whom Lalu had once regarded as a close ally. He remarked, "What has happened to Lalu Yadav? He is the one who used to consider Nitish Kumar as his brother, companion, and friend. Is this what he thought of the CM?" These responses reflect the growing political divide in Bihar, with the "Mahila Samvad Yatra" being viewed as a crucial event ahead of the 2025 state elections. The rally is intended to facilitate direct interaction between Nitish Kumar and women in Bihar on issues related to their empowerment and welfare.

In a separate development, Lalu Yadav expressed support for Mamata Banerjee’s leadership of the INDIA alliance, amid objections raised by the Congress. He stated, "Congress's objection means nothing. We will support Mamata. Mamata Banerjee should be given the leadership of the INDIA Bloc." Lalu's statement reflects his alignment with Banerjee, even as the Congress raises concerns over her leadership within the opposition alliance. Additionally, Lalu reaffirmed his confidence in RJD’s prospects in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, declaring that his party would form the government once again.

Meanwhile, Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu’s son and the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, criticized Nitish Kumar for allocating Rs 225 crore for the "Mahila Samvad Yatra," accusing him of using public funds for self-promotion. Tejashwi alleged that Nitish Kumar’s government had failed to address pressing issues such as unemployment, crime, and corruption, yet the Chief Minister was spending large sums of money on an electoral program. Tejashwi highlighted various issues facing the state, including rising inflation, the failure of prohibition, and widespread corruption, arguing that the funds allocated to the rally would be better spent on addressing these concerns.