Activists in Hyderabad have sought the registration of a Zero FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over an incident in which he was purportedly seen pulling down the niqab of a Muslim woman during a public event.
The demand follows the circulation of a video clip on social media that allegedly shows the Chief Minister pulling the veil of a woman while handing over appointment letters to newly recruited AYUSH doctors at a government-organised programme. The footage, which has been widely shared online, has drawn criticism from various quarters.
Hyderabad-based activist Lubna Sarwath submitted a complaint to the Osmania University police, requesting the registration of a Zero FIR, citing media reports that the incident took place on December 15. She stated that the act occurred in full public view and resulted in the woman being humiliated. In her complaint, Sarwath sought action against Kumar under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Sarwath also approached the National Commission for Women, urging it to take suo motu cognisance of the matter, direct the Bihar Police to register a case, initiate an investigation, and ensure protection and counselling for the woman involved.
Separately, activist Khalida Parveen filed a complaint at the Langar Houz police station, arguing that touching or pulling any part of a woman's attire without her consent amounts to a criminal offence. She alleged that the incident could embolden anti-social elements and said the act had hurt the sentiments of women and undermined their dignity.
Both activists called on the Telangana Police to register a Zero FIR and forward the case to the appropriate jurisdiction for further action, stressing that individuals holding high constitutional office should be held to the same legal standards as others.
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