Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Hits Out At Baba Bageshwar for Incendiary ‘Hindu Rashtra’ Remark

Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar lashed out at self-styled godman ‘Baba Bageshwar’ Dhirendra Shastri over his statement about igniting the ‘Hindu Rashtra’ fire in Bihar.

Kumar emphasized the importance of respecting the Constitution and the diverse beliefs of individuals, stating that such remarks hold no value. He asserted that everyone in Bihar has the right to worship as they choose, but interference in others’ faith is unacceptable.

Further, former Bihar CM Lalu Prasad Yadav and his son Tej Pratap Yadav also expressed their disapproval of Shastri’s remarks. Lalu Prasad questioned Shastri’s significance and existence as a Baba, while Tej Pratap accused him of insulting Biharis and attempting to divide the country.

Reportedly, Dhirendra Shastri made the controversial statement at an event in Patna, which organizers had to cancel due to an unexpectedly large crowd. BJP MP Ram Kripal Yadav criticized the Nitish Kumar-led government for mismanagement, as high humidity and overcrowding during the event led to hundreds of devotees falling ill.

In response, Dhirendra Shastri requested devotees to avoid large gatherings due to the prevailing high temperatures in the district. The organizers had initially planned for the four-day Hanumanth Katha event to conclude on May 17.