Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday called on Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to apologise to a woman physician after Kumar controversially pulled down her veil during a government event. This incident occurred on Monday at the Bihar Secretariat, igniting a firestorm of criticism.
During an appointment letter distribution for AYUSH doctors, Kumar allegedly commented, “What is this?” before touching the doctor’s naqab. Abdullah condemned this behaviour, stating that nothing can justify a leader touching a woman’s clothing, labeling the act as unacceptable.
“Would you do such an act? I would not,” Abdullah asserted, emphasizing the importance of respect and dignity for women. He added that the concerned doctor has since refused her appointment letter because of the incident and urged Kumar to rectify the situation by apologising and encouraging her to accept the position.
The controversy extended upon reactions from politicians, including Union Minister and BJP leader Giriraj Singh, who defended Kumar’s actions. Abdullah expressed disbelief at this defence, accusing the ruling party of hypocrisy.
“If a Muslim leader had touched the veil of a Hindu woman in Haryana or Rajasthan, there would have been a huge uproar,” Abdullah argued. “But since the woman here is Muslim, the BJP finds nothing wrong.” He reiterated that the core issue lies in respecting human dignity and conduct.
“How can anyone touch a woman’s clothes like this? Why did the Chief Minister feel the need to do so?” Abdullah questioned, pressuring Kumar to recognise the gravity of his actions.
Shifting gears, Abdullah responded to recent remarks by Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan regarding the military dynamics with Pakistan, labelling them as purely personal opinions, not reflective of the party’s stance. He stressed that the opposition united in support of government and defence forces following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Later, during his visit to participate in India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) Role Model Series, Abdullah reflected on the intricate fabric of India’s history. He spoke passionately about the ‘Idea of India’, mentioning Jammu and Kashmir’s pivotal decision to join India during the Partition.
“I come from a Muslim-majority state which could have gone with Pakistan, especially because it shared a border. Yet Jammu and Kashmir chose India. That choice defines the idea of India we must protect,” Abdullah stated.
While appreciating India’s diversity, Abdullah expressed concern regarding trends that threaten democratic values. He urged that the spirit of debate must sustain, even amidst pressing national issues.
On meritocracy, Abdullah tackled the ongoing issues surrounding medical college admissions and sports selections in Jammu and Kashmir, criticising the focus on religious identity. He highlighted that 42 of the first batch of 50 students admitted to the Vaishno Devi Medical College through NEET were Muslims, stirring a debate about representation.
“The only balance that should matter is between the talented and the untalented,” he asserted firmly. “The India I envision for our children is one where merit alone dictates success—nothing else. If someone excels academically or in sports, their religion should be irrelevant,” he concluded.
