Controversial Gulmarg Fashion Show Sparks Political Outcry in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir Leader of Opposition, Sunil Sharma, has accused Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of lying about his knowledge of a contentious fashion show held in Gulmarg. Sharma claims Abdullah attempted to distance himself from the event, which critics say offends societal norms, particularly during Ramzan.

The Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir, Sunil Sharma, has launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, accusing him of deceit regarding a controversial fashion show in Gulmarg. The show, reportedly held at a hotel linked to Abdullah's relatives, has drawn significant public ire. Sharma's allegations follow Abdullah's announcement in the Assembly that the event would be subjected to an inquiry.

Sharma vehemently questioned Abdullah's assertions that he was unaware of the event. "If such a significant function takes place at your relatives' hotel, how can you claim ignorance? It defies belief," said Sharma. He suggested that Abdullah was fully aware and possibly complicit in organizing the event, only attempting to distance himself after the uproar. "Now that public outrage has surfaced, you're promising an inquiry. Is that inquiry going to include your family? It's time for truth, not lies," Sharma stressed.

In response, Omar Abdullah condemned the event, highlighting its negative impact on societal sentiment, especially given its timing during the holy month of Ramzan. He clarified that the fashion show was a private affair with no official sanction, vowing legal consequences if any laws were violated. Abdullah's stance follows criticism from opposition figures like Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh, who decried the event as a cultural affront.

(With inputs from agencies.)