Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has acted promptly and asked for a report on Sunday after a fashion show in the ski resort of Gulmarg during the fasting month of Ramzan evoked widespread criticism with people taking to social media platforms questioning the timing of the show. Upset over the development, the event has been criticised for being insensitive to religious sentiments of the majority community here and violating the sanctity of the holy month. Not only commoners but important religious leaders like Mirwaiz Umar Farooq too have voiced their concern over the development calling in “Outrageous” and questioning that how could it be tolerated in the valley known for its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious outlook of its people?
Following the outrage, the Chief Minister Abdullah while admitting that the shock and anger are totally understandable as the images show a complete disregard for local sensitivities and that too during this holy month, has said that his office has been in touch with the local authorities and has asked for a report to be submitted within the next 24 hours. He said that further action, as appropriate, will follow once he receives the report.
While people have appreciated CM’s prompt reaction, they are questioning the wisdom behind holding such show during the month of Ramzan. It is pertinent to mention here that for every and any even to be held in Gulmarg, the organizers, if the event is not official, have to seek permission from the concerned authorities. Question is, who allowed the organizers to hold this show. Was it Gulmarg Development Authority, Tourism Department or was this show held without proper permission. In either of the scenario, the local civil and police administration is to be made accountable.
From past few years, Kashmir has been witnessing a comparatively peaceful atmosphere and the authorities should ensure that this peace prevails. But incidents like the Gulmarg fashion show have every potential to vitiate the atmosphere and create disturbance. Some overenthusiastic officers, who want to portray themselves as more loyal than the king, can’t be allowed to indulge in activities that could trigger trouble. Those who have allowed this show have not been mindful of religious sensitivities and cultural norms, especially during holy month of Ramzan. Promoting tourism is ok but not in a manner that hurts peoples’ religious sentiments. Now that the Chief Minister has sought a report, let the findings of the report be made public and on the basis of it, the appropriate action be taken. It should be done in a transparent manner so that the people, whose feelings have got hurt, are satisfied that yes, the government of the day is respectful and considerate of the community’s feelings and values.
