Iltija Mufti files complaint seeking FIR against Nitish Kumar for pulling down Muslim doctor's veil

Srinagar, Dec 19: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti has filed a formal complaint seeking the registration of an FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over an incident in which he allegedly pulled aside the face veil of a Muslim woman doctor during a government function.

In the complaint, Iltija Mufti described the act as a serious violation of personal dignity, bodily autonomy and religious freedom, arguing that the incident amounts to an offence under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Constitution. She said the act, carried out at a public event, was not only humiliating for the woman concerned but also sent a “deeply disturbing message” about respect for women and minorities in positions of power.

The complaint states that the doctor, identified as an AYUSH practitioner receiving an appointment letter, appeared visibly taken aback during the incident, while the chief minister proceeded without consent. Iltija Mufti asserted that such behaviour by a constitutional authority cannot be normalised or dismissed as inadvertent, particularly when it involves interference with personal attire rooted in faith and choice

Calling the incident an abuse of authority, the PDP leader urged law-enforcement agencies to act without prejudice and uphold the rule of law. She stressed that accountability must apply equally to all individuals, irrespective of their political position.

The episode, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, has sparked nationwide outrage and drawn condemnation from opposition parties and civil society groups. While several leaders have criticised Nitish Kumar’s conduct, neither the Bihar Chief Minister nor his party has issued an official response so far.