Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to apologize to a woman doctor following a controversy that erupted when Kumar controversially pulled down her veil during a government event in Patna. The incident sparked outrage across social media and among political circles.
This incident occurred recently on Monday at the Bihar Secretariat during an appointment letter distribution ceremony for AYUSH doctors. Eyewitnesses report that Kumar, while addressing the woman doctor, remarked, “What is this?” before removing her naqab.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah condemned Kumar’s actions as unacceptable, stating, “There is absolutely no justification for the Chief Minister to have touched the woman’s clothing in such a disrespectful manner.” He expressed concern over the psychological impact such actions could have on women in public life.
“I have been informed that the doctor has now declined to accept her appointment letter and is refusing to join government service,” Abdullah lamented. “This incident calls for an apology from Nitish Kumar, urging him to encourage her to take up the role she was appointed for.”
The former Chief Minister also criticized the response from Union Minister and BJP leader Giriraj Singh, who defended Kumar’s actions. Abdullah stated, “We cannot expect anything different from the ruling party. If such an incident occurred involving a Hindu woman, it would have led to an outcry. Here, however, the BJP seems indifferent because the affected individual is a Muslim.”
Abdullah emphasized that the core of this issue transcends religious identities; it fundamentally relates to the dignity and respect that every individual deserves. He questioned, “How can anyone touch a woman’s clothing in such a manner? The Chief Minister should reflect on his actions and admit his error.”
In a broadening of the discussion, Abdullah also touched on ongoing national issues. He responded to Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan, who suggested a “total defeat” during military operations against Pakistan. Abdullah emphasized that such remarks reflect Chavan’s personal perspective rather than the Congress’s official views. He reassured that the opposition parties unitedly support governmental and defense efforts following significant attacks.
During his engagement at the 11th edition of India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN), Abdullah shared insights on the “idea of India”, reiterating Jammu and Kashmir’s pivotal historical decision to align with India during Partition. He stated, “My homeland could have chosen to join Pakistan due to its geographical advantages. Instead, Jammu and Kashmir chose India, a decision that we must safeguard.”
Abdullah expressed his concerns for the future, underscoring that while differing ideas of India exist, democracy and majority rule should encourage constructive discussions and debates.
He also highlighted controversies surrounding medical college admissions and athletics in Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah condemned the narrative surrounding religion in these discourses. He specifically addressed ire towards the recent admission of 42 Muslim students into the first MBBS batch of the Vaishno Devi Medical College and the composition of the state’s football team.
“The only balance that matters is between the talented and the untalented,” he stated firmly, adding, “The India that I envision for future generations is one where merit is the sole criterion for progress—nothing else. Whether through academics or sports, religious background should remain inconsequential.”
