Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sought a report in 24 hours after widespread backlash over a fashion show organized at the ski resort of Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan. The fashion show, conducted with the aim of promoting tourism, was condemned by religious leaders and social activists, who have described it as "obscene" and against the cultural and religious ethos of the valley.

The controversy picked up pace after Kashmir's top cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, firmly criticized the event, saying that "obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be tolerated."

"Outrageous! That during the holy month of Ramzan an obscene fashion show is arranged in Gulmarg, images and videos of which have gone viral, evoking shock and anger among people," the Mirwaiz wrote on X.

"How could it be allowed in the valley with its Sufi, saint culture and the deeply religious worldview of its people? Those responsible should be held accountable forthwith. Such obscenity in the name of tourism promotion will not be allowed in Kashmir!"

JKNC MLA Tanvir Sadiq said, "It should not have happened. J&K is a place of Sufi saints...even in normal circumstances, semi-nude shows should not take place in J&K, this is not acceptable."

CM Omar vows action after probe

In reply, Omar Abdullah conceded the outrage in the public, assuring that the issue would be probed.

"The outrage and the shock are absolutely understandable. The photos that I have seen depict a blatant disregard for local sensitivities, and that too in this sacred month," the chief minister said on X.

"My office has spoken to the local authorities, and I have sought a report within the next 24 hours. Action will follow from this report, as and when appropriate."

The Chief Minister's Office also released Abdullah's statement, which suggests that the administration is serious about the issue.

The controversy over the fashion show underscored the intensifying conflict between cultural sensitivities and tourism marketing in Kashmir. Although tourism is a key economic force in the region, incidents seen as incongruent with local customs frequently trigger opposition from religious and social organizations.

Activists express displeasure

The incident also evoked scathing responses from social activists, who raised questions about the role of the tourism department in hosting such an event.

Senior activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat denounced the fashion show as an attempt to "demolish the moral, religious, and ethical values of Kashmir."

"Who gave a go-ahead to this nude fashion walk at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi-nude men and women strutting about on snow. Will Tourism Deptt, CEO GDA shed some light? Why are you so set on destroying our moral, ethical, cultural, and religious sensibilities?" Bhat posted on X.