Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has demanded an apology from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar following a controversial incident where Kumar pulled down the veil of a woman doctor during a government function. The incident occurred on Monday in Patna during a ceremony that distributed appointment letters to AYUSH doctors.
Abdullah labeled Kumar’s actions as utterly unacceptable, stating, “There is no justification for touching a woman’s clothing in such a manner,” emphasizing the need for respect towards women irrespective of their religious background.
Witnesses reported that Kumar reacted to the doctor’sveil by exclaiming, “What is this?” before pulling down her naqab. Abdullah noted that the doctor has since declined the appointment and suggested that Kumar must encourage her to accept her position in government service.
“Would you do such an act? I would not,” Abdullah remarked, stressing the inappropriate nature of Kumar’s behavior. He highlighted a significant double standard in political reactions: “If a Muslim leader had touched the veil of a Hindu woman in Haryana or Rajasthan, there would have been a huge uproar. But since the woman here is Muslim, the BJP finds nothing wrong.”
Abdullah clarified that his concern transcends religion and directly pertains to the dignity and conduct expected in public service. He called on Kumar to acknowledge his mistake and consequently make amends.
In response to Union Minister and BJP leader Giriraj Singh, who defended Kumar’s actions, Abdullah expected no different reaction from a ruling party that he believes lacks sensitivity. The fallout from the veil incident continues to resonate across various political groups.
In a broader political context, Abdullah addressed comments made by Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan regarding the recent aerial confrontations with Pakistan. He defended the united front shown by opposition parties, emphasizing support for national defense forces post-Pahalgam terror attack.
Abdullah was in Patna to participate in the 11th edition of the India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) Role Model Series. During the event, he reflected on the historical decision of Jammu and Kashmir to accede to India, reinforcing the concept of a united India.
“I come from a Muslim-majority state which could have aligned with Pakistan due to geographical ties. Yet, Jammu and Kashmir made a conscious choice in favor of India. This decision exemplifies the essence of the India we need to preserve,” he asserted.
Touching on the contentious topic of meritocracy, Abdullah criticized the ongoing debates surrounding medical admissions and representation in sports. He highlighted a recent uproar over the composition of students enrolled in the Vaishno Devi Medical College, which included 42 out of 50 Muslim students. He also challenged discussions about the selection of players in the J&K football team for the Santosh Trophy.
“The only balance that should matter is between the talented and the untalented,” he emphasized. Abdullah articulated a vision of India that prioritizes individual merit over religious identity, stating, “The India I desire for our children is one where merit solely governs success, irrelevant of one’s religion.”
