New Delhi / Hyderabad: 23 December Posted on 5:51 PM IST
The All India Muslim Women Association (AIMWA) urged the National Commission for Women (NCW) to take immediate action against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over an alleged incident during a public event that violated the dignity and privacy of a Muslim woman.
A Delegation led by Dr Asma Zehra met with NCW Chairperson Vijaya K. Rahatkar, AIMWA strongly condemned what it described as a “highly disgraceful and insensitive act” by the Chief Minister. The association alleged that during a public programme, the Chief Minister attempted to tug at the niqab of a Muslim woman doctor, an act AIMWA termed as humiliating and an attack on her dignity, modesty, and personal freedom.
Dr Asma Zehra stated that such conduct from a constitutional authority sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, including the rights to privacy, freedom of conscience, and the freedom to practice one’s religion with dignity. She said the incident amounted to harassment and a severe assault on the honour of Muslim women across the country.
Highlighting the emotional impact of the incident, Dr Asma Zehra said the act caused deep mental stress and trauma to the woman concerned. The association added that the incident has also disempowered and discouraged many young Muslim girls and women who strive to pursue education and professional careers while asserting their identity.
She further noted that the religious sentiments of millions of Muslim women, including professionals, homemakers, and businesswomen, have been hurt by the incident. AIMWA demanded a public apology from the Chief Minister, particularly to the woman doctor involved.
The association urged the National Commission for Women to take cognisance of the matter and intervene decisively. AIMWA warned that failure to act against such incidents would erode women’s sense of safety and dignity in public spaces.
Meanwhile speaking with a news channel writer Javed Akhter also condemned that incident and advised Bihar Chief Minister to tender an apology to Muslim Woman.
Mohammed Naseer Giyas is a multi-media and bilingual journalist with over 20 years of experience across print, digital, and television media. Founder of Raftaar-e-Deccan, he is an alumnus of IVLP, Thomson Reuters Foundation, and ICFJ, and has worked with leading English and Urdu news organisations.
