NEW DELHI: Political strategist-turned-activist Prashant Kishor has escalated his criticism of Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, questioning his mental fitness and calling for his resignation. Kishor alleged that Kumar is “physically tired and mentally unfit” to govern and claimed that he has lost control over the state’s administration.
Kishor made these remarks after a viral video showed Nitish Kumar conversing with his chief secretary while the national anthem was being played. The video was widely circulated and drew criticism for disrespecting the anthem, with opposition leaders reiterating their demand for the chief minister to step down.
Following this Prashant Kishor on Sunday in a press briefing said, “The first person to comment on Nitish Kumar’s health was his ally, Sushil Kumar Modi… Since then, many Bihar ministers have spoken about his condition. I never commented on it until January. But during the BPSC protests, I realized that Nitish Kumar’s mental condition has deteriorated so much that he has no clue about what’s happening in the state.”
Kishor further questioned Kumar’s cognitive abilities, stating, “If you want evidence for this, just ask him to name the ministers in his council… Nitish Kumar should resign. But the BJP deserves equal blame because it’s not possible that the Prime Minister or Home Minister are unaware that Nitish Kumar is mentally unfit.”
The debate over Kumar’s health intensified after the video incident. Sharing the footage, Tejashwi Yadav wrote on X, “Let us remind you that you are the chief minister of a large state. You are not stable physically or mentally even for a few seconds. Your continuance in this position in such a state is a matter of grave concern for the state. Do not repeatedly insult Bihar like this.”
RJD chief Lalu Prasad also condemned Kumar’s actions, stating, “India will not stand the insult of the national anthem.” He questioned whether anything more was needed to prove Kumar’s declining leadership.
Kishor has been vocal against Kumar’s leadership for weeks. Urging voters to defeat JD(U) in the upcoming elections, he said, “To break this cycle, and to ensure that the arrow (JD(U)’s poll symbol) does not float with the lotus (BJP) nor burn bright with the lantern (RJD), I appeal to the people to vote in a manner that JD(U) does not win even one seat.”
He also accused the BJP of using Kumar as a “mask” to hold power and criticized the recent cabinet expansion as an attempt to misuse public funds before the government’s term ends.
Despite mounting criticism, Kumar’s son Nishant and JD(U) leaders have dismissed speculation about the chief minister’s health. Nishant has maintained that his father is “100 percent fit” and capable of serving another term.
However, with elections approaching, attacks on Kumar’s leadership and health are expected to continue, shaping the political discourse in Bihar.
