Fashion Show in Kashmir Sparks Outrage Amidst Ramzan, Opposition Slams Government

Srinagar, 10th March 2025: A fashion event featuring scantily clad men and women in Jammu and Kashmir has ignited a major controversy, with the Opposition criticizing the newly elected Omar Abdullah-led government. The show, held at the Gulmarg ski resort during the holy month of Ramzan, has faced backlash from political and religious groups, who argue that it disregarded local values and cultural sentiments.

Despite Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s assurance that appropriate action would be taken, the controversy continues to escalate. Addressing the Assembly, he distanced his administration from the event, stating that it was privately organized without government involvement or permission. “It was a private gathering, and no approval was sought from us. Authorities have been instructed to take action if any legal violations occurred. If necessary, the matter will be referred to the police,” he said.

Former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti rejected this explanation, arguing that dismissing the event as a private affair was insufficient.

“It is deeply disturbing to see inappropriate images from the recent fashion show in Gulmarg. Hosting such an event, which turned into an indecent display, during the sacred month of Ramzan is shocking. Private hoteliers should not be permitted to organize such events that directly contradict our cultural and moral values,” Mufti stated.

She further criticized the government for attempting to absolve itself of responsibility, warning that a lack of accountability could encourage similar incidents in the future, leading to broader cultural and societal harm.

Omar Abdullah acknowledged the public outcry and requested a report within 24 hours. “The shock and anger expressed by the people are entirely justified. The images I have seen show a blatant disregard for local sensitivities, especially during this holy month,” he said in response to a post by senior cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

Farooq, the chief priest of Srinagar’s Jama Masjid and chairman of the separatist Hurriyat Conference, condemned the event, asserting that promoting obscenity under the guise of tourism would not be tolerated.

“This is outrageous! During the holy month of Ramzan, an indecent fashion show was hosted in Gulmarg, and its pictures and videos have gone viral, sparking public outrage. How can such an event be allowed in a region known for its Sufi traditions and deep religious roots? Those responsible must be held accountable immediately,” he declared.

Social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat also questioned the authorities about how such an event was permitted. “Who authorized this fashion show in Gulmarg during the sacred month of Ramzan? Men and women in revealing clothing parading on snow—will the Tourism Department or the Gulmarg Development Authority provide answers? Why is there an attempt to erode our moral, ethical, cultural, and religious values?” he wrote online.