J&K CM Omar Abdullah vows appropriate action but said the event was a private affair
GUWAHATI, March 10: J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has vowed to take “appropriate action” after being at the receiving end of some harsh criticism over a fashion show held at the ski resort of Gulmarg in the hold month of Ramzan.
The fashion show was billed as “obscene” by many and triggered protests in the assembly, prompting Omar Abdullah to “seek a report within 24 hours” besides assuring “appropriate action”.
“Deeply troubling to witness vulgar images from the recent fashion show in Gulmarg. The fact that such an event which descended into an indecent spectacle took place during the sacred month of Ramadan is nothing short of shocking. It is deplorable that private hoteliers are allowed to promote such vulgarity through these events, which blatantly contradict our cultural values. The government cannot simply absolve itself of responsibility by labeling this a private affair. Shrugging off accountability could pave the way for more such events, ultimately inflicting severe damage on our culture and society,” PDP chief and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti wrote on ‘X’, formerly Twitter.
“Outrageous! That In the holy month of Ramzan an obscene fashion show is organised in #Gulmarg, pictures & videos from which have gone viral sparking shock and anger among people. How could it be tolerated in the valley known for its sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people? Those involved should be immediately held accountable. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated in #Kashmir.!” Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of the All Party Hurriyat Conference, wrote on social media.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, meanwhile, said in the floor of the assembly that the event was a private affair and that no permission was taken from the Government.
“It was a private party and there was no government involvement, no permission was taken from us. Instructions have been given that if anything against the law has happened then action should be taken. If necessary, it should be handed over to the police,” Omar Abdullah said.
“The shock & anger are totally understandable. The images I have seen show a complete disregard for local sensitivities & that too during this holy month. My office has been in touch with the local authorities & I’ve asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours. Further action, as appropriate, will follow from this report,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s office earlier stated in a post on ‘X’.
“If law has been violated, strict action will be taken,” Abdullah reiterated.
