Vibha Devi, newly elected JDU MLA from Nawada, Bihar, went viral for struggling to read her oath in Hindi during the first session of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha on December 1, 2025.
She required assistance from a fellow MLA to complete the oath, provoking widespread criticism and questions about her qualifications.
Despite the backlash, Vibha Devi comes from a powerful political family and defeated her opponent by over 27,000 votes. The Bihar Assembly’s newly elected MLAs convened amid the NDA’s landslide victory in the recent polls.
Political Context and Background
Vibha Devi is the wife of Rajballabh Yadav, a strongman and former MLA with significant influence in Nawada. Her election follows a massive win for the ruling NDA alliance, which captured 202 out of 243 seats in Bihar’s 18th Legislative Assembly.
Vibha Devi’s victory over Rashtriya Janata Dal’s Kaushal Yadav by 27,594 votes highlights her political sway despite the controversy. This election occurred during a period when new MLAs pledged to work for Bihar’s development under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership.
Oath Incident and Public Reaction
During the oath-taking ceremony, Vibha Devi struggled repeatedly to pronounce the Hindi oath, at times pausing and relying on nearby MLA Manorama Devi to guide her through the words.
The video quickly went viral on social media, sparking harsh criticism and meme culture questioning her literacy and suitability for office.
The incident has ignited discussions about candidate selection, political dynasties, and democratic representation in Bihar. Despite this, many supporters emphasise her family’s longstanding political legacy and local influence in Nawada.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This episode underscores broader challenges related to political representation, meritocracy, and public perception in Indian democracy. The Logical Indian advocates for fair and inclusive processes that empower elected officials with the skills and support needed to serve effectively.
At the same time, it calls for empathy and nuanced understanding of local political dynamics and social realities. Genuine leadership extends beyond formalities to reflect accountability, integrity, and commitment to public service.
