Srinagar Court Issues Pre-Cognizance Notice Over Controversial Gulmarg Fashion Show

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A court in Srinagar has issued a pre-cognizance notice to the organizers of a fashion show held in Gulmarg on March 7, which has sparked outrage across the Kashmir Valley.

The Special Mobile Magistrate Court in Srinagar issued the pre-cognizance notice to fashion designers Shivan and Narresh, the organizers of the show, as well as the Editor-in-Chief of ELLE India. The notice follows a complaint filed by Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) leader Adil Nazir Khan.

Through his counsel, Advocate Naveed Bukhtiyar, the complainant urged the court to take appropriate legal action, asserting that the petition was filed in good faith and in the interest of justice.

The fashion show, organized to mark the 15th anniversary of Shivan and Narresh’s label, showcased models in skiwear against the snowy backdrop of Gulmarg. However, the event has faced sharp criticism from locals, politicians, and religious groups, who have condemned it as “obscene” and “inappropriate.The court has scheduled the next hearing for April 8.

Omar Abdullah Seeks Report on Controversial Gulmarg Fashion Show Amid Outrage During Ramzan

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Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sought report from Administration into a controversial fashion show held in Gulmarg after images and videos of the event sparked widespread outrage, especially during the holy month of Ramzan.

The controversy erupted after Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemned the event on social media platform X, calling it “outrageous” and demanding accountability from those involved.

In a post on X, Omar Abdullah wrote, “”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.”

Earlier Mirwaiz Umar Farooq wrote on X,“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.!”