SRINAGAR, Dec 20: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday reaffirmed that India is a secular nation founded on constitutional values and not tied to any single religion. She said the country belongs to all its citizens and must uphold the dignity and rights of every community.
Reacting to the recent controversy surrounding Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Mufti termed the incident “deeply disturbing” and said it should never have occurred. She lashed out at BJP leaders, particularly Giriraj Singh, accusing them of promoting intolerance and disrespect toward women.
Drawing a parallel from the Mahabharata, Mufti remarked, “This is not Ram Raj; this is Kaurav Raj. Just like Draupadi was humiliated in a public gathering, similar acts are being repeated today.” She said disrespect toward women, whether for religious or political reasons, cannot be justified under any circumstances.
Expressing disappointment over the Bihar incident, Mufti said she had “no expectations” from those who repeatedly attack women and minorities but found Kumar’s conduct “especially disheartening” given his experience and stature.
The PDP president also spoke about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the region has been going through “an extremely difficult phase” since 2019, with diminishing space for dissent and expression. “People live in fear; they feel their voices are not being heard,” she said.
Welcoming Dr. Mustafa Khan, DDC member from Hajin-B (Bandipora), and his supporters into the party, Mufti said the PDP will continue to fight for the rights, dignity, and self-respect of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “Together, our collective voice must become strong enough to protect the identity and rights of our people,” she added.
Meanwhile, Iltija Mufti filed a complaint at Kothibagh Police Station against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, seeking registration of an FIR over the alleged hijab incident. The complaint cited a viral video showing Kumar purportedly pulling down the hijab of a Muslim doctor, identified as Nusrat Parveen, during an official function in Bihar.
In her written complaint, Iltija described the act as “vile” and said it had caused immense distress among Muslims, especially women. She urged police to take legal action to uphold women’s dignity and the rule of law.
