Tue Dec 16 21:41:56 UTC 2025: Summary:
Several political figures and a former actress in Jammu and Kashmir have condemned Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for publicly removing the veil of a Muslim doctor during an official event. They view his actions as a violation of the woman’s dignity, religious freedom, and personal autonomy, demanding an unconditional public apology and even suggesting he should step down.
News Article:
J&K Leaders Condemn Bihar CM for Removing Doctor’s Veil, Demand Apology and Resignation
Srinagar, December 17, 2025 – A wave of condemnation has swept through Jammu and Kashmir following an incident in Bihar where Chief Minister Nitish Kumar publicly removed the veil of a Muslim doctor during an official function. Political leaders and prominent figures from the region have voiced strong criticism, accusing Kumar of disrespecting the woman’s dignity, religious beliefs, and personal choices.
Former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed shock, stating, “Having personally known and admired Nitish ji, I was shocked to see him pull down a young Muslim woman’s naqaab (veil).” She questioned whether his actions were due to old age or “the normalization of humiliating Muslims publicly,” and suggested that Kumar should consider stepping down.
Mufti’s daughter, Iltija Mufti, echoed the sentiment, stating that “no one has the right to interfere with a woman’s dignity in public.”
Ruling National Conference (NC) leader and Minister Sakina Ittoo described Kumar’s actions as “deeply disturbing and indefensible,” asserting that they violate a woman’s dignity, faith, and personal autonomy.
Imran Ansari, general secretary of J&K Peoples Conference, sent a letter to the Bihar Chief Minister calling the act “deeply hurtful, unacceptable, and in clear violation of the democratic and constitutional values of India.” He emphasized that the hijab is a religious obligation rooted in faith and self-respect, and that the woman, being a doctor, deserved particular respect.
Awami Ittehad Party spokesperson Inam Un Nabi stated that Kumar’s behavior “strips the office of Chief Minister of any moral credibility left.”
Former Bollywood actor Zaira Wasim also weighed in, saying, “A woman’s dignity and modesty are not props to toy with… Power does not grant permission to violate boundaries.”
All parties are demanding an unconditional public apology from Nitish Kumar for his actions, with some calling for his resignation from the Chief Minister’s post. The incident has sparked a debate about respect for religious freedom and personal autonomy in India.
First Piper 