Srinagar, Dec 16,: Senior political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti and Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi have strongly condemned the conduct of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after a video surfaced showing him publicly pulling at a Muslim woman’s burqa during an official function, triggering widespread outrage and debate.
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said she was deeply shocked by the incident, stating that she had personally known and admired Nitish Kumar in the past. In a sharply worded reaction, Mufti questioned whether the act should be attributed to old age or to what she described as the growing normalisation of publicly humiliating Muslims. She said the incident itself was disturbing, but what was even more unsettling was the manner in which those present appeared to watch the episode unfold as a form of entertainment. Mufti remarked that such behaviour was unbecoming of a person holding a high constitutional office and asked whether it was time for Nitish Kumar to step down.
Echoing similar concerns, National Conference Member of Parliament Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi described the Bihar Chief Minister’s conduct as indefensible and deeply disturbing. In a statement issued by his office, Ruhullah said that publicly pulling at a Muslim woman’s burqa amounted to a serious violation of dignity and personal respect. He asserted that Nitish Kumar owed the woman and the public an unconditional apology.
Ruhullah further said the erratic nature of the conduct raised alarming questions about the Chief Minister’s composure and mental clarity, which he said were essential for anyone occupying a constitutional position. He added that seeking medical attention and stepping aside from office was necessary in light of the incident.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions across political and social circles, with many calling for accountability and a clear response from the Bihar government. [KNT]
