Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti has filed a police complaint in Srinagar against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) over his recent actions at an official function in Patna. The complaint stems from a widely circulated video showing Kumar removing the 'naqab' (veil) of a female doctor. Mufti alleges that Kumar's act was indecent, humiliating, and violated the woman's dignity, potentially emboldening attacks on Muslim women across the nation.
Mufti submitted the complaint at the Kothi Bagh police station in Srinagar. She emphasized that her action was a stand for women across the country and asserted that public figures, especially those in constitutional positions, must be held to the highest standards of accountability. "Being in office does not give anyone a license to insult women. The law is equal for all," she stated, urging institutions to take the complaint seriously and act in accordance with the law.
In her complaint, Mufti referred to visuals from the government event in Bihar, where Kumar was seen pulling down the 'naqab' of a young Muslim doctor, Nurse Parveen, in full public view. She also noted the reactions of those present, including the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, who she claims watched and laughed instead of intervening. Mufti described the act as a violation of the woman's autonomy, identity, and dignity.
Mufti stated that the incident occurred at a time when Muslims across India are facing political and economic marginalization, making the episode even more disturbing. She also alleged that similar incidents have followed across the country, with videos circulating of individuals forcibly removing hijabs from Muslim women, actions she believes were emboldened by the Bihar Chief Minister's actions.
Following the lodging of the FIR, Mufti stated, "When a Chief Minister breaks the law, it sends a wrong message and encourages communal behaviour". She criticized Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders for attempting to justify Kumar's action, instead of apologizing. Mufti also condemned comments that impose moral policing on women regarding their choice of attire.
The incident has triggered political reactions, with women's rights activists and opposition leaders demanding accountability and greater sensitivity from public representatives. Former J&K Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti stated she was shocked by Nitish Kumar's actions and suggested that he should step down. Awami Ittehad Party spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said that Kumar's behavior was disgraceful and humiliated both the doctor and his own position. Chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar, addressing a congregation in Srinagar, also condemned Kumar's actions as a grave violation of personal dignity and moral boundaries.
