While replying to mediapersons about the killing of five Indian soldiers along the Line of Control, Bihar Rural Works Department Minister Bhim Singh on Wednesday said: "Sena or police me jo jaate hai, shahid hone ke liye jaate hai. Aakhir bharti hote hai shahadat ke liye na (One joins police or Army to sacrifice one's life. After all, one joins for the sake of martyrdom)".
His remark caused uproar with BJP, RJD and Congress lambasting the minister for being insensitive. RJD MP Ramkripal Yadav even demanded his resignation.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who spoke to the minister over phone from Delhi, snubbed Singh, forcing him to issue an apology. The minister, however, blamed the media for "twisting" his statement. "I am sorry for my statement because it has hurt the sentiments of people" he said.