Srinagar – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti has filed a police complaint against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, alleging he forcibly removed a woman doctor's veil at a public event in Patna. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and outrage, particularly in Kashmir, with Mufti leading street protests and demanding the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Kumar.

Mufti submitted the complaint at the Kothibagh Police Station in Srinagar on Friday, December 19, 2025, asserting that Kumar's actions constituted a "grave violation of dignity and consent". She argued that the incident caused immense distress and hurt among Muslims, especially women, and reflected a broader pattern of discrimination faced by Muslims in the country. Mufti stated that the actions of the Bihar Chief Minister "reinforced an atmosphere of fear and humiliation for Muslim women" and that political leaders in power are normalising conduct that undermines constitutional values.

The complaint follows a viral video showing Kumar pulling down the 'naqab' of a young Muslim doctor during a government function in Bihar. The doctor, reportedly distressed by the incident, has declined the AYUSH appointment. Mufti and her supporters marched to the police station, chanting slogans against Kumar's actions, which they described as an assault on the dignity of Muslim women.

"I'm writing to bring to your attention a vile incident which has caused immense distress and hurt among Muslims, especially women," Mufti stated in her complaint to the Kothibagh SHO. Addressing reporters, Mufti cautioned that such actions encourage individuals to disrespect Muslim women by forcibly removing their hijabs and circulating related videos on social media. She also criticised Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for what she described as a delayed response to Nitish Kumar while unfairly targeting PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti in his comments.

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from various political figures. Omar Abdullah condemned Kumar, questioning the double standards in political reactions and demanding an apology. "Had I removed a Hindu woman's veil in Haryana or Rajasthan, what would the BJP have done?" he asked, stressing that the issue transcends religion. "Forget she was Muslim and wearing a hijab—how can anyone lay hands on a woman's clothes?".

Union Minister Giriraj Singh defended Kumar, stating that identification requires showing the face for official documents. However, Mufti warned the BJP and its allies to immediately stop this disrespect towards Muslim women. "Otherwise, Muslim women across the country will take to the streets and teach them a lesson," she stated.

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry also weighed in, calling the incident "deeply disturbing" and alleging rising intolerance toward Muslims in India. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar termed it "shameful".

As of now, there has been no word from the police on whether an FIR has been registered against Kumar. The incident remains a contentious issue, sparking debates about religious freedom, women's rights, and political accountability.