Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called for an apology from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar following an incident where Kumar allegedly pulled down the veil of a woman doctor at a government event in Patna. This controversial act, which occurred on Monday during an appointment letter distribution ceremony for AYUSH doctors, has sparked widespread outrage.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah condemned the incident, stating, "There is no justification for the Bihar Chief Minister to touch the woman’s clothing. This act is completely unacceptable." The incident took place at the Bihar Secretariat when Kumar remarked, "What is this?" while allegedly removing the doctor’s naqab.
Abdullah expressed concern that the doctor, now feeling disrespected, has reportedly refused to accept her appointment letter and will not join government service. He stated, "Nitish Kumar should apologise to her and persuade her to take up the job."
The incident also drew criticism from Abdullah regarding the response of Union Minister and BJP leader Giriraj Singh, who defended Kumar’s actions. Abdullah commented, "One cannot expect anything different from the ruling party." He highlighted the double standards in the reaction, saying, "If a Muslim leader had touched the veil of a Hindu woman in Haryana or Rajasthan, there would have been a huge uproar. But since the woman here is Muslim, the BJP finds nothing wrong."
Abdullah emphasized that the issue transcends religion, focusing on human dignity and conduct. He questioned Kumar’s actions, asking, "How can anyone touch a woman’s clothes like this? Why did the Chief Minister feel the need to do so?" He urged Kumar to acknowledge his mistake and offer a formal apology.
In a broader context, Abdullah also addressed political and national issues. When asked about Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan suggesting a major defeat during military operations against Pakistan, Abdullah clarified, "That is Chavan’s personal opinion and cannot be regarded as Congress’s official stance." He reaffirmed the unity of opposition parties with the government and armed forces, especially following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Furthermore, Abdullah spoke about the evolving “idea of India” during his attendance at the 11th edition of the India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) Role Model Series. He discussed Jammu and Kashmir’s historical choice to accede to India despite the overwhelming Muslim majority, stating, "That choice defines the idea of India we must protect."
After acknowledging the distinction of ideas in the nation, he emphasized how democracy and majority rule enable discourse, albeit with some concerning developments.
On the topic of merit-based opportunities, Abdullah criticized discussions influenced by religious identity in light of recent medical college admissions and sports selections in Jammu and Kashmir. He referenced the backlash after 42 out of 50 students admitted to the Vaishno Devi Medical CollegeSantosh Trophy.
Abdullah made it clear that "the only balance that should matter is between the talented and the untalented." He asserted, "The India I want for our children is one where merit alone decides how far they go—nothing else." His vision emphasizes a meritocracy, where an individual’s qualifications, not their religion, dictate their success.
