The Aryavarth Express
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti on Friday lodged a police complaint against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accusing him of pulling down the veil of a Muslim woman doctor during a public function.
In her complaint to the Station House Officer (SHO) of Kothibagh Police Station, Mufti sought the registration of an FIR against the Bihar CM, stating that the incident had caused “immense stress and distress” among Muslim women.
“I am writing to bring to your attention a vile incident which has caused immense distress and hurt among Muslims, especially women. A few days ago, we watched with shock, horror and worry as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulled down the ‘naqab’ of a young Muslim doctor in full public glare at a government function,” Mufti wrote in her complaint.
She further alleged that the reaction of those present at the event, including Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, worsened the situation. “What made matters worse was the unsettling reaction of the people around, including the Deputy Chief Minister, who chuckled and watched with glee,” she said.
Mufti described the incident as a “brutal assault” not only on the woman involved but also on the dignity and autonomy of Indian women. “The forceful stripping of her naqab isn’t just a brutal assault on a Muslim woman but on the autonomy, identity, and dignity of every Indian woman,” she alleged, adding that the incident was especially disturbing amid what she described as the political and social marginalisation of Muslims.
Speaking to reporters later, Mufti criticised the response of BJP leaders allied with Nitish Kumar. “Instead of apologising, the Bihar Chief Minister’s allied BJP leaders are making vulgar statements and trying to justify the act,” she said.
The complaint comes amid growing criticism from opposition parties over a widely circulated video from a government event in Patna. The footage shows the incident occurring during a ceremony at the Chief Minister’s office where appointment letters were being distributed to newly recruited AYUSH doctors. As the woman stepped forward to receive her certificate, Nitish Kumar was seen pulling down her hijab, revealing her mouth and chin.
The video also shows Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary attempting to stop Kumar, while some people present in the background appeared to laugh, further fuelling outrage over the incident.
