A fashion show held in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan has ignited widespread outrage, with many labeling the event as “obscene” and disrespectful to local sentiments. The controversy has led to protests in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, prompting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to address the issue.
Speaking in the assembly on Monday, CM Abdullah clarified that his government had no involvement in the event and would not have permitted such a show at any time of the year, let alone during Ramzan. “It was a private four-day event organized by a private party in a private hotel. No government permission was sought, no public funds were used, and no government officials were present,” he stated.
The chief minister acknowledged the public’s anger and assured that an inquiry had been ordered. “Preliminary facts reveal that certain aspects of the event hurt the sentiments of the people, and their concerns are valid,” he said. Abdullah also emphasized that if the inquiry finds any legal violations, the case will be handed over to the police for further investigation.
The event has drawn criticism from various quarters, including Kashmir’s chief priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who condemned the show as an affront to the valley’s Sufi and saintly traditions. “Obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated,” the Mirwaiz said in a social media post.
CM Abdullah echoed these sentiments, stating, “The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities, especially during this holy month. Such an event should not have taken place at any time of the year.”
The controversy has sparked a broader debate on cultural sensitivity and the role of private events in public spaces. The government has assured strict action if any laws were violated, aiming to address the public’s concerns and uphold the region’s cultural values.
