New Delhi: A video showing Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary declining to wear a skull cap offered by a Muslim attendee during a public event in Patna has drawn attention and reactions across political circles.
The incident took place during a programme organised to welcome Choudhary after he took oath as Chief Minister on April 15. Since assuming office, he has been meeting party workers and supporters at multiple events.
In the video, a Muslim man approaches the Chief Minister, greets him, and attempts to place a skull cap on his head. Choudhary stops him, takes the cap in his hand, and then passes it to his security staff. Shortly after, the same individual offers him a shawl. The Chief Minister accepts it and wears it, smiling in front of those present.
Several attendees at the event had come forward with garlands, shawls, and other items to greet the newly sworn-in leader. The moment involving the skull cap circulated widely on social media platforms soon after.
The visuals have prompted reactions from opposition parties, adding to ongoing political discussions around symbolism and public gestures involving religious identity. The incident has raised questions among observers regarding public conduct and the handling of religious expressions during official interactions.
No formal statement has been issued by the Chief Minister’s office regarding the incident so far.
