‘Haathi vs Bandar’ Jibe Sparks War of Words Between Samrat Chaudhary and Pappu Yadav in Bihar
Arrest of MP Pappu Yadav triggers fresh confrontation as ‘haathi’ and ‘bandar’ remarks escalate row
Bihar, Feb 21 : An ongoing Bihar political war of words has intensified after an exchange between Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and MP Pappu Yadav spilled from the Assembly to social media.
The controversy follows Yadav’s late night arrest in connection with a 1995 case. He was subsequently sent to Beur Jail in Patna. The MP has maintained that the action against him is politically motivated, alleging it is linked to his recent statements regarding the death of a NEET aspirant.
The arrest sparked protests across the state, with several prominent leaders voicing support. Among them were Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Shivanand Tiwari and Jitan Ram Manjhi. Supporters questioned the timing of the move, arguing that if the case dates back three decades, the arrest could have taken place much earlier.
Assembly remark fuels controversy
During a discussion on the Home Department’s budget in the Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary made a remark without naming anyone. He said that initially it is claimed the police “haven’t harmed even an ant,” but once an arrest happens, “even an elephant begins to fear an ant” and health concerns are cited.
Though he did not directly refer to anyone, the “elephant” comment was widely interpreted as aimed at Yadav.
Sharp response online
Responding on social media, Yadav issued a pointed retort without mentioning the Deputy Chief Minister by name. In his post, he described his political opponent as a “monkey” and criticised what he termed a loss of self-respect for political gain.
What began as a comment during budget proceedings has now evolved into a public confrontation, with symbolic animal metaphors sharpening the tone of political discourse in the state.
