Mehbooba Mufti and Political Leaders Condemn Nitish Kumar for Controversial Hijab Incident

Mehbooba Mufti expressed that the incident was both shocking and deeply disturbing.

Srinagar:

Mehbooba Mufti, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, strongly criticized Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday regarding a controversial hijab incident.

The PDP leader issued a sharp rebuke against Nitish Kumar following an incident where he was captured on video pulling down the hijab of a young Muslim woman.

In her statement on X, Mufti described the incident as shocking and deeply disturbing. She mentioned having personally known and respected Nitish Kumar for years but was dismayed by the visual evidence of the incident.

She questioned whether this behavior could be attributed to age-related factors or if it represented the increasing normalization of public humiliation directed at Muslims.

Mufti further remarked, "The most troubling aspect was that bystanders watched this disturbing incident unfold as if it were entertainment, raising profound questions about the sensitivity and conduct expected from public officials."

Taking a firm political position, the PDP chief suggested that the Bihar Chief Minister should engage in self-reflection and consider resigning, arguing that such actions compromise the dignity of minorities and undermine public confidence in democratic leadership.

Lok Sabha member Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi also expressed strong disapproval of CM Nitish Kumar's behavior.

On the X platform, Ruhullah stated, "The behavior demonstrated by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, publicly pulling at a Muslim woman's burqa, is indefensible and deeply troubling. He owes both the woman and the public an unqualified apology. This erratic conduct is concerning and indicates a person who no longer demonstrates the composure or mental clarity necessary for constitutional office. Seeking medical attention and stepping aside is essential."

The incident has prompted intense reactions across social media and political circles, raising questions about the senior leader's respect for personal and religious dignity as well as accountability in public life. A viral video showed CM Nitish Kumar pulling down the hijab of a Muslim woman during a 'Samvad' felicitation event at the CM's secretariat, where more than 1,000 AYUSH doctors received appointment letters.