In a surprising turn of events within Bihar’s much-touted good governance under Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal, representing Gopalpur, found himself at the centre of controversy on Tuesday. Mandal’s visit to Jawahar Lal Nehru Medical College & Hospital in Bhagalpur made headlines as he openly carried a revolver in hand, triggering outrage and questions about safety and security in the state.
A video that surfaced on social media captured Mandal’s audacious behaviour as he recklessly displayed the firearm within the hospital premises. Despite being questioned by security staff about the weapon, the legislator reportedly justified his actions by stating, “If I don’t carry it in my hand, where else should I keep it? It’s my style.”
Dotted alliance partner Nitish Kumar's JDU MLA Gopal Mandal walks with revolver in a hospital for "self protection" under the L&O of own govt.
Few months back his son was arrested for a shooting case.
Just Bihar thing!pic.twitter.com/heUVhhhFRb
— The Hawk Eye (@thehawkeyex) October 4, 2023
Mandal, who had come to the hospital for his granddaughter’s CT scan, caused a significant commotion inside the facility. The incident has since drawn widespread criticism from various quarters, putting a dent in the image of the Nitish Kumar-led government, which has consistently presented itself as the champion of law and order and a protector of the interests of the underprivileged.
When confronted about his conduct and the open brandishing of the firearm, Mandal cited the poor law and order situation in the state. He claimed that the revolver was licensed, and he possessed all the necessary permits. However, this explanation has provided fresh ammunition for the opposition to question the credibility of the Nitish Kumar administration.
बिहार में अपराधियों के साथ अब सत्ता पक्ष के विधायक भी जनता को धमकाने में लगे हुए हैं।
सत्ता के नशे में मगरुर सत्ताधारी जेडीयू के विधायक गोपाल मंडल हाथ में रिवॉल्वर लेकर भागलपुर के अस्पताल पहुंचे और अपनी पोती की जाँच करवाई। नीतीश कुमार की पुलिस खड़ी होकर तमाशा देखती रही। गुंडाराज… pic.twitter.com/j3s65tYri7
— Vinod Tawde (@TawdeVinod) October 4, 2023
The incident raises concerns about the safety and security of both the common residents and elected representatives in Bihar, contradicting the government’s claims of having successfully curbed criminal activities under its governance. It remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the political landscape in the state and whether any action will be taken against the JD(U) MLA for his brazen behaviour.
