Controversial Fashion Show in Gulmarg Sparks Debate in Kashmir Assembly
A fashion show held in Gulmarg, Kashmir, has become the centre of controversy, sparking strong reactions from political and religious leaders. The event, which took place during the holy month of Ramzan, was criticised by many, including Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, and several politicians.
Public Outrage Over the Event
The fashion show was organised on Friday against the backdrop of the snow-covered slopes of Gulmarg to mark the 15th anniversary of the designer label Shivan & Narresh. However, as soon as pictures and videos of the event surfaced, many people in Kashmir expressed anger, calling it insensitive to local culture and religious sentiments.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq called the show “outrageous” and “obscene,” stating that such events should not take place, especially during the sacred month of Ramzan. He said that promoting tourism in this way was unacceptable in Kashmir. Similarly, People’s Conference president Sajad Lone said the event was “eminently avoidable.” Other politicians, including Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi and Congress leader Deepika Pushkar Nath, also criticised the show.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s Response
The issue reached the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday, where Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had to clarify the government’s stance. Before the Budget discussion, he addressed the concerns raised by legislators regarding the fashion show.
Omar Abdullah firmly stated that the government had no role in organising the event. He explained that it was a private function arranged by a private group in a private hotel. He also made it clear that no permission had been taken from the government and no government resources were used for the event.
He acknowledged that public sentiments had been hurt and stated, “Some people said that it should not have happened in the holy month of Ramzan, but I feel that what I saw there, leave Ramzan, it should not happen in any month of the year.”
Inquiry Ordered Into the Event
Although the government was not involved, Abdullah said the administration had been asked to investigate the matter. If any laws were violated, strict action would be taken, and the case could even be handed over to the police.
He further emphasised that had the organisers sought permission from the government, it would not have been granted. He criticised the event organisers, saying they did not think about the public’s emotions before planning the show.
Conclusion
The fashion show in Gulmarg has triggered a heated debate in Kashmir, highlighting the sensitivity of cultural and religious issues in the region. While some argue that it was a private event, many believe that it showed a lack of respect for local values, especially during Ramzan. The government has distanced itself from the controversy, but an inquiry is now underway to determine if any laws were broken. The incident has once again raised discussions on the balance between modern events and traditional sentiments in Kashmir.
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