Iltija Mufti Seeks FIR Against Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Over Naqab-Stripping Incident

Srinagar, Dec 19, KNT: Iltija Mufti has written to the Station House Officer of Kothibagh Police Station demanding the registration of an FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over an incident in which he was seen removing the niqab of a young Muslim doctor during a public event. In her letter, she said the episode caused deep distress among Muslims, especially women, and amounted to an assault on dignity, autonomy and identity.

Mufti said the act, which occurred in full public view and drew visible amusement from those around, including Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister, has shaken the confidence of Muslim women across the country. She described the incident as a violation of personal rights and a reflection of growing political and social othering at a time when the community already faces marginalisation.

She said that since the incident, disturbing videos have emerged from various parts of the country showing miscreants pulling off the hijabs of Muslim women, suggesting that such behaviour is being normalised after a Chief Minister himself was involved in what she termed a “vulgar act of indecency.” Mufti said some political leaders appeared to be condoning the incident, which, according to her, has emboldened anti social elements.

Expressing concern as a young Muslim woman, Mufti said no deterrent action had been taken so far, and she urged the police to ensure equal application of the rule of law. She said political stature cannot shield any individual from legal scrutiny.

Mufti asked the SHO to immediately file an FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to safeguard the dignity of Indian women and uphold their right to wear what they choose without fear. [KNT]