A political storm has erupted following comments by Union Minister Giriraj Singh, drawing sharp criticism from Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and noted lyricist Javed Akhtar. The controversy centers on statements about the traditional Muslim practice of 'parda' or veil and an incident involving a Muslim lady doctor.
Omar Abdullah's Sharp Retort to BJP Leader
On December 18, 2025, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah responded strongly to a statement made by Union Minister Giriraj Singh. Abdullah questioned the Bharatiya Janata Party's selective outrage, posing a hypothetical scenario. He argued that if he had removed the veil of a Hindu woman from states like Rajasthan or Haryana, the BJP's reaction would have been dramatically different.
This remark highlights the ongoing political tension and accusations of differential treatment based on religion. Abdullah's statement, shared via the ANI news agency on social media platform X, suggests a pattern of behavior he attributes to the ruling party.
Javed Akhtar's Unequivocal Condemnation
Adding his voice to the debate on the same day, celebrated writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar made his stance clear. While explicitly stating his personal opposition to the traditional concept of 'Parda', Akhtar strongly condemned the actions of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar towards a Muslim lady doctor.
Akhtar, in a post on X, stated he could not "accept what Mr Nitish Kumar has done" and condemned it "in very strong words." This separates his ideological position on the veil from his defense of personal dignity and autonomy, emphasizing that disagreement with a practice does not justify disrespectful actions.
Political Repercussions and Public Discourse
The dual criticisms from Abdullah and Akhtar have fueled a significant public debate. The incident involving Nitish Kumar, referenced by Akhtar, has become a focal point for discussions on respect, religious practices, and political accountability. The controversy raises questions about the intersection of personal freedom, tradition, and the role of political figures.
Analysts suggest this exchange is part of a larger national conversation on identity and politics. The swift and public nature of the condemnations indicates the sensitivity of issues surrounding women's agency and religious symbolism in contemporary Indian politics. The fallout from these statements is likely to influence political discourse in the coming days.
