SRINAGAR: A Srinagar court has issued a pre-cognizance notice to the organisers of a March 7 fashion show in Gulmarg, which triggered widespread outrage across the Valley, according to media reports.
The event, conducted during Ramadan, triggered protests and led to disruptions in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s Budget session.
Amid the controversy, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah distanced the government from the event, calling it a “private affair.”
The Special Mobile Magistrate Court in Srinagar issued notices to fashion designers Shivan and Narresh, the show’s organisers, and the Editor-in-Chief of ELLE India following a complaint by Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) leader Adil Nazir Khan.
The fashion show, held to mark the 15th anniversary of Shivan and Narresh’s label, showcased models against Gulmarg’s snowy backdrop. However, local residents, politicians, and religious groups criticised it as “obscene” and “inappropriate.” In response, the designers apologised, stating that their intent was to celebrate creativity, not offend cultural or religious sentiments.
The next hearing is scheduled for April 8.
