Patna: Muslim doctor Nusrat Parveen, who became the centre of a high-profile hijab controversy in Bihar, did not report for duty by the extended December 31 deadline, raising doubts over her appointment.
Patna Civil Surgeon Dr Avinash Kumar Singh confirmed that Nusrat has not joined her post at PHC Sadar in Patna City. “The chances of her joining now are very low, as the department had already extended the deadline. There is no possibility of further extension,” he said, adding that any formal request from Nusrat explaining her absence would be considered by the authorities.
Nusrat was originally expected to join on December 20. Following her failure to report, the State Health Committee extended the joining date to the end of the month. Of the 75 AYUSH doctors selected, 63 have joined their posts, leaving 12 yet to report.
The process for joining involves candidates presenting appointment letters—issued by the Chief Minister—to the Civil Surgeon’s office, completing document verification, and receiving a posting letter specifying the Community Health Centre where they will serve.
During the controversy, Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari offered Nusrat a government post with a monthly salary of Rs 3 lakh, a preferred posting, government accommodation, and security. By contrast, her prospective salary in Bihar is Rs 32,000 per month. “In Jharkhand, there is no compromise on the respect and dignity of doctors, especially women,” Ansari said.
The incident that brought Nusrat into the spotlight occurred on December 15, when Chief Minister Nitish Kumar distributed appointment letters to AYUSH doctors. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister reportedly asked Nusrat to remove her hijab, and according to witnesses, he removed it himself. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary was seen trying to intervene, while those present reportedly laughed as Nusrat appeared momentarily uncomfortable. She later received her appointment letter and left the event.
Nusrat’s decision not to join her post has sparked debate over religious freedom and administrative procedures in Bihar’s health sector.
