The political climate in Darbhanga, Bihar, has become increasingly tense after a social media post by Deputy Mayor Nazia Hasan comparing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to Pakistan. The statement, which equated the RSS with Pakistan due to their shared "two-nation theory," triggered immediate and forceful backlash from BJP workers and Hindu organizations.
Following the deputy mayor's post, activists from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and various Hindu groups gathered at the Darbhanga Municipal Corporation office to protest. The demonstrators demanded an immediate apology and called for action against Hasan. The situation escalated as protesters confined Hasan to her office, chanting slogans and vandalizing the nameplate outside her door. The uproar also included burning an effigy of the deputy mayor within the corporation premises.
In response to the escalating protests and public outrage, Nazia Hasan issued an apology via social media, expressing regret if her statement caused hurt to anyone. However, the apology has not quelled the anger of the protestors, who are demanding her dismissal and are calling for sedition charges to be filed against her.
Local authorities, including the Sadar SDPO Amit Kumar, intervened to manage the situation, engaging in discussions with both sides to find a resolution. Officials have also appealed to the public to avoid spreading or believing in rumors that could further inflame tensions.
This is not the first time a controversy has erupted involving political figures in Darbhanga and religious sentiments. Earlier in March 2025, Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara faced criticism for suggesting a two-hour break during Holi celebrations to accommodate Friday prayers during Ramadan. This proposal also triggered strong reactions, with some BJP leaders calling it a "terrorist mindset."
The current controversy highlights the delicate balance of communal harmony in the region and the sensitivity surrounding statements involving political and religious organizations. The situation remains tense, with ongoing demands for Hasan's removal from her post and potential legal repercussions. The incident underscores the importance of responsible public discourse and the need for leaders to be mindful of the impact their words can have on community relations.