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Politics
Bihar Minister Shrawon Kumar Faces Online Backlash Over Diabetes Comment on Sugar Prices
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 22 Aug 2026, 03:38 AM
👁 10
Minister Shrawon Kumar’s remark linking rising sugar prices to diabetes has ignited criticism on social media, prompting calls for clarification.
Bihar’s health minister, Shrawon Kumar, sparked a wave of criticism after he suggested that the recent surge in sugar prices could exacerbate diabetes cases. The comment, made during a press briefing on the state’s sugar market, was quickly picked up by users on platforms such as Twitter and Facebook, where many accused the minister of insensitivity towards patients and of politicising a health issue.
Netizens highlighted that diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions in the state, and they argued that blaming price hikes shifts focus from essential public health measures. Several health experts also weighed in, emphasizing the need for affordable nutrition rather than attributing disease prevalence to market fluctuations.
In response to the growing outcry, the minister’s office issued a brief statement asserting that the remark was intended to draw attention to the broader impact of rising commodity costs on vulnerable populations. However, the statement did not contain an apology, and opposition leaders have demanded a formal clarification.
The episode underscores the sensitivity surrounding health-related comments by public officials, especially in a state where diabetes rates are among the highest in the country. It also reflects the increasing scrutiny politicians face on social media, where statements can rapidly become viral and provoke widespread debate.
Netizens highlighted that diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions in the state, and they argued that blaming price hikes shifts focus from essential public health measures. Several health experts also weighed in, emphasizing the need for affordable nutrition rather than attributing disease prevalence to market fluctuations.
In response to the growing outcry, the minister’s office issued a brief statement asserting that the remark was intended to draw attention to the broader impact of rising commodity costs on vulnerable populations. However, the statement did not contain an apology, and opposition leaders have demanded a formal clarification.
The episode underscores the sensitivity surrounding health-related comments by public officials, especially in a state where diabetes rates are among the highest in the country. It also reflects the increasing scrutiny politicians face on social media, where statements can rapidly become viral and provoke widespread debate.