Court Issues Notice Over Controversial Gulmarg Fashion Show
Srinagar, March 14: A court in Srinagar has issued a pre-cognizance notice to the organizers of a controversial fashion show held in Gulmarg on March 7, which has sparked widespread outrage across the Kashmir Valley. The event, conducted during the holy month of Ramadan, has been criticized for being insensitive to local religious and cultural sentiments, leading to disruptions in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s Budget session.
The Controversial Event
The fashion show, organized by renowned designers Shivan and Narresh, was held to mark the 15th anniversary of their luxury label. Set against the picturesque snowy backdrop of Gulmarg, the event showcased a collection of skiwear and après-ski outfits. However, the timing of the event during Ramadan and the nature of the attire displayed—deemed “obscene” by critics—triggered a massive backlash.
Images and videos from the event went viral on social media, drawing sharp criticism from locals, religious leaders, and political figures. Many viewed the event as a disrespectful affront to Kashmiri culture and Islamic values, particularly during a sacred month.
Legal Action Initiated
The Special Mobile Magistrate Court in Srinagar issued pre-cognizance notices to:
- Shivan and Narresh, the designers and organizers of the show.
- The Editor-in-Chief of ELLE India, which reportedly collaborated on the event.
The notices were issued following a complaint filed by Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) leader Adil Nazir Khan, who alleged that the event caused emotional distress to the Muslim community and violated public decency laws.
Petitioner’s Claims
Advocate Naveed Bukhtiyar, representing the petitioner, explained the legal basis for the complaint. “The court reviewed the case in detail, raised queries related to the offences invoked, and examined the complaint thoroughly. After satisfying itself, the court issued the pre-cognizance notice under the proviso clause of Section 223(1), which mandates giving the accused an opportunity to respond before the court takes actual cognizance,” he said.
The petitioner argued that the event caused public disturbance and sought:
- Legal action against the accused.
- Compensation for the emotional distress caused to the community.
- A thorough investigation into the event’s organization and its compliance with local laws.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for April 8.
Political and Religious Backlash
The controversy has also drawn reactions from political and religious leaders:
- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah clarified that the government had no involvement in the event, describing it as a “private affair.” He condemned the show as “insensitive” and assured the public that an inquiry had been initiated. “The government had no role in this event. If any laws were violated, appropriate action will be taken,” he stated.
- Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir’s chief cleric, called the event “outrageous and unacceptable,” emphasizing that such activities go against the spiritual and cultural essence of Kashmir.
- Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister and PDP leader, criticized the event as “deplorable” and an attack on Kashmiri values.
Cultural Sensitivities Ignored
The timing of the event during Ramadan has been a focal point of criticism. Observers argue that the fashion show displayed a lack of awareness and respect for the region’s deeply rooted religious and cultural traditions. The attire showcased—described as “bold” and “inappropriate”—further fueled the controversy.
Religious leaders and activists have called for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents in the future. “Kashmir is a land of saints and Sufis. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated,” said a local cleric.
Organizers Apologize
In the wake of the backlash, designers Shivan and Narresh issued a public apology, stating that they did not intend to hurt religious sentiments. “We deeply regret the timing of the event and any distress caused. It was never our intention to offend anyone,” they said in a statement.
Broader Implications
The incident has reignited debates about the balance between tourism promotion and cultural sensitivity in Jammu and Kashmir. While the region seeks to attract global attention as a tourist destination, events like the Gulmarg fashion show highlight the challenges of navigating local traditions and global aspirations.
Critics argue that such controversies undermine efforts to present Kashmir as a peaceful and inclusive destination. “Tourism should celebrate the culture and values of the region, not disregard them,” said a local activist.
What’s Next?
As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will remain on the accountability of the organizers and the measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The court’s decision on April 8 will likely set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the region.
