Patna: In an unexpected development within Bihar's much-vaunted good governance under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal, who represents Gopalpur, found himself embroiled in controversy on Tuesday. Mandal's visit to Jawahar Lal Nehru Medical College & Hospital in Bhagalpur made headlines as he openly carried a revolver, sparking outrage and raising questions about safety and security in the state.

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

A video that surfaced on social media captured Mandal's audacious behavior as he casually displayed the firearm within the hospital premises. Despite being questioned by security staff about the weapon, the legislator reportedly defended his actions by stating, "If I don't carry it in my hand, where else should I keep it? It's my style." 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, tarnishing the image of the Nitish Kumar-led government, which has consistently portrayed itself as a champion of law and order and a protector of the interests of the underprivileged.

When confronted about his conduct and the open display 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 given the opposition fresh ammunition to question the credibility of the Nitish Kumar administration. 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 behavior.

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