Synopsis
The Omar Abdullah administration has refuted claims of government involvement in the controversial Gulmarg fashion show, emphasizing the event's private organization. Investigations into legal violations have been initiated following public backlash and demands for accountability from local leaders.Key Takeaways
- Omar Abdullah's government denies involvement in the Gulmarg fashion show.
- Investigations are underway to check for any legal violations.
- Local leaders criticize the event for promoting obscenity.
- The show was not part of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025.
- Concerns raised about cultural and religious sensitivities.
Jammu, March 10 (NationPress) The government led by Omar Abdullah has officially dismissed any claims of its involvement in the contentious Gulmarg fashion show, asserting that the event took place at a private hotel.
During the Assembly session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that authorities have been instructed to investigate potential legal infringements by the organizers since the show was conducted in a private venue.
“Should any infractions be identified, the matter will be referred to the police for appropriate measures,” he added.
The fashion show, which occurred on March 7, has faced significant backlash in Kashmir, with numerous leaders claiming it fostered obscenity and vulgarity.
Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, PDP MLA from Pulwama, expressed to reporters that such events challenge and offend the religious sentiments of Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Consider how the RSS and others react to events like Valentine's Day. This is an affront to our cultural and religious values. Those responsible for permitting such a vulgar occasion must face consequences,” he remarked.
Nizamuddin Bhat, Congress MLA, also condemned the fashion show and urged accountability for those who permitted it.
Farooq Ahmad Shah, NC MLA from Tangmarg, which includes Gulmarg, clarified that the government did not sanction the fashion show, nor was it a part of the ongoing Khelo India Winter Games 2025 happening in Gulmarg.
“The Chief Minister has mandated a report on the event within 24 hours. We should await the findings,” Shah stated.
Tanvir Sadiq, spokesperson for NC, also voiced that such events should not be held, especially during the sacred month of Ramzan or at any other time of the year. “The Chief Minister, in his capacity as tourism minister, had no role in the event's organization,” he noted.
The Chief Minister further questioned the rationale behind denying the Deputy Chief Minister's visit to Kathua, while allowing Leader of Opposition (LoP), Sunil Sharma, to proceed.
CM Abdullah expressed doubt that LoP Sunil Sharma was speaking on behalf of the J&K Police.
Under the current UT administration, police, law and order, along with central services, including IAS/IPS, are under the direct oversight of the Lt. Governor.
