Bihar minister's remarks on girls' education spark outrage and concern
Bihar’s education minister, Mithilesh Tiwari, has sparked controversy by questioning the need for girls to receive an education. He praised the idea of girls staying at home, calling them the foundation of family prosperity. Tiwari holds a BA in economics and previously worked as a teacher before entering politics. His recent comments clash with national efforts like the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign, which aims to encourage girls' education.
Bihar has made progress in girls' school enrolment and reducing dropout rates. Yet the state still has the second-highest number of out-of-school girls in India. The Nitish Kumar government has introduced schemes such as free bicycles and uniforms to boost attendance.
As education minister, Tiwari’s role is to increase classroom participation for girls at all levels. His remarks have drawn comparisons to the Taliban’s stance on women’s education. NGOs working in the field fear his words could hinder their efforts and affect the lives of many girls and women. Tiwari’s statements contradict his official duties and national policies. They also risk undermining ongoing initiatives to improve girls' access to education in Bihar. The impact of his words may extend beyond politics to the wider community.
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