The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday staged a protest in Srinagar against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over an incident in which he removed the hijab of a Muslim woman doctor during an official function in Bihar.
The protest was led by Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. Party workers assembled at party headquarters then marched towards Lal Chowk, raising slogans and holding placards condemning what they described as an act of disrespect towards Muslim women and their religious choices.
According to news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS), the PDP leaders and workers termed the incident “deeply insensitive” and said it reflected a disregard for the personal freedom and dignity of Muslim women. They demanded action against the Bihar Chief Minister, asserting that no public functionary has the right to interfere with an individual’s religious attire.
Addressing the protesters, Iltija Mufti said that Muslim women, like other citizens, exercise their democratic right to vote and choose their representatives. “Muslim women also choose Nitish Kumar as chief minister. How can he remove the veil of a Muslim woman? This is unacceptable. We are seeking action against him,” she said.
She further alleged that such actions contribute to the marginalisation of minorities and women, and called for respect for constitutional values, including freedom of religion and expression.
The protesters continued raising slogans against Nitish Kumar, urging political leaders across the country to uphold secular principles and respect the personal choices of women. (KINS)
