Patna – The political climate in Bihar has intensified following a video shared by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, questioning Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's mental and physical fitness to govern. The video, which has rapidly gone viral, purportedly shows Kumar making unusual gestures during a virtual event.
Yadav posted the video on social media platform X, asking, "How does it feel to see the Chief Minister of a state in such a pathetic condition? Does the honourable Chief Minister ji appear mentally healthy to you while engaging in such bizarre antics?". He further questioned whether Kumar's condition was a result of a conspiracy, suggesting that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) might be deliberately influencing him through "prasad or other food items".
The video appears to capture Kumar attending a skill convocation ceremony for ITI toppers on Saturday, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented certificates. In the video, Kumar is seen with folded hands, making gestures resembling the 'Namaste' sign. Yadav insinuated that Kumar's actions were bizarre and raised concerns about his ability to make sound decisions for the state.
This is not the first time Yadav has publicly questioned Kumar's capabilities. In September, ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, Yadav targeted Kumar's age and health, stating, "Nitish Kumar is no longer fit to run Bihar. He has grown old. Bihar needs to develop at a fast pace". He has also accused the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) of exploiting and cheating the Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs).
Kumar, who has served as Chief Minister for a significant period, has faced increasing scrutiny regarding his public conduct. Opposition leaders have been demanding his resignation, citing instances of erratic behavior. In March 2025, Yadav criticized Kumar for allegedly disrespecting the national anthem in a video where Kumar was seen talking to his chief secretary while the anthem played. He argued that Kumar's "unstable" condition was a grave concern for the state and that he should not repeatedly "insult Bihar".
The RJD leader has also previously pointed out instances where officials seemingly had to guide Kumar during public events, questioning why they often hold his hand on stage. He has also criticized Kumar for his silence towards the media and infrequent visits to incident sites.
The political sparring between Yadav and Kumar is not new. In July 2025, a heated exchange occurred in the Bihar Assembly when Kumar rebuked Yadav, reminding him of his parents' tenures as Chief Ministers. The debate was surrounding the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, which Yadav criticized for its lack of transparency. Kumar interrupted Yadav, claiming that he broke the alliance with the RJD because it "did not perform well" in government.
These recent developments add to the ongoing political turbulence in Bihar, with the opposition intensifying its attacks on the Chief Minister's leadership and fitness to govern. The Bihar Assembly election is set to take place later this year and fair elections are expected.
