Srinagar: A heated political confrontation erupted in Kashmir on Friday following PDP leader Iltija Mufti’s petition demanding an FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over an incident involving the removal of a Muslim woman’s naqaab.
Mufti’s complaint, lodged at Kothi Bagh Police Station, accused Kumar of violating the dignity of a Muslim woman when he allegedly pulled off her naqaab publicly during a government event in Patna, sparking widespread outrage and a major political debate.
The ruling National Conference criticized Mufti’s move, with spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar accusing her of selective outrage and political grandstanding. Dar challenged Mufti to seek legal action against her own mother for a similar incident in 2004, asserting that justice should be impartial and not influenced by personal or political ties.
Mufti’s complaint described the incident as a “vile act” that caused distress among Muslims, especially women, and condemned the deputy chief minister’s reaction, which she said was gleeful. She emphasized that the act was an attack on the dignity and identity of Indian women and expressed concern that such behavior by a chief minister could embolden elements to humiliate Muslim women across the country.
The incident, which took place during a gathering of Ayush doctors receiving appointment letters, was captured on video and widely circulated, igniting a political storm. Mufti also condemned a wave of similar incidents across India where Muslim women’s naqaabs have been forcibly removed, criticizing the justification and celebration of Kumar’s actions by some political figures and ministers.
While the police have not confirmed whether an FIR has been registered against Kumar, Mufti urged immediate legal action, asserting that no one is above the law, regardless of political stature.
The controversy also prompted strong reactions from other political leaders. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti condemned Union Minister Giriraj Singh’s recent inflammatory remarks, stating they foster hatred and undermine social harmony. She welcomed Mufti’s FIR effort as a sign of accountability through democratic means.
NC, PDP clash over naqaab controversy as Iltija seeks FIR against Bihar CM
