The high-profile “hijab row” involving Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar took a fresh turn on Saturday, December 20, 2025, as Dr. Nusrat Parveen did not report for duty at the Sabalpur Primary Health Centre (PHC).
Despite assurances from college officials and friends that she would assume her post today, the 7:00 PM “possibility window” closed without her arrival. In response, the State Health Committee has officially extended the joining deadline for Dr. Parveen until December 31, 2025, to accommodate what officials are calling a “special case.”
The “Niqab Row” Recap
The controversy erupted following a viral video from an appointment letter distribution ceremony on December 15.
- The Incident: As Dr. Parveen approached the stage, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar gestured toward her face veil and reportedly asked, “What is this?” before pulling it down to expose her face for the official photograph.
- The Defense: The JD(U) and the Chief Minister’s Office have defended the gesture as “paternal affection,” likening Nitish Kumar to a “guardian” encouraging a student to celebrate her achievement openly.
- The Backlash: Opposition parties like the RJD and Congress have labeled the act “disgusting” and an “assault on women’s dignity.”
Political Heat: From Srinagar to Lucknow
The incident has triggered a nationwide legal and political firestorm over the last 48 hours:
| Leader/Group | Action / Statement |
| Iltija Mufti (PDP) | Filed a formal police complaint at Kothibagh (Srinagar), calling it a “vile incident” and a “violation of personal autonomy.” |
| Mayawati (BSP) | On Saturday, called the incident “unfortunate and regrettable,” advising the CM to “express regret” to end the controversy. |
| Giriraj Singh (BJP) | Defended the CM, stating, “If you go for a passport, do you not show your face? This is not an Islamic country.” |
| Mirwaiz Umar Farooq | Condemned the act during the Friday congregation at Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid as a “grave violation of moral boundaries.” |
Status of Dr. Nusrat Parveen
While speculation was rife that Dr. Parveen had moved back to Kolkata due to trauma, the Principal of Government Tibbi College, Dr. Mahfoozur Rahman, dismissed these reports today.
- Family Stance: The Principal quoted Parveen’s husband, stating the family is not “angry” with the government but is “disappointed with the media row.”
- The Delay: The family reportedly wants to avoid the media glare and is “rethinking” the timing of her joining.
- The Appointment: Out of the 1,283 AYUSH doctors recruited, 63 have already joined in Patna; Dr. Parveen’s seat remains the only one under heavy security and scrutiny.
What’s Next?
Patna Civil Surgeon Avinash Kumar Singh confirmed that no contact has been established with the doctor directly. If Dr. Parveen does not report to the Sadar Hospital or the Civil Surgeon’s office by December 31, her appointment may be treated as “declined” under the current health department ultimatum.