Pulwama, Dec 17: Terming incident involving Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulling a hijab of a girl “wrong” Jammu and Kashmir BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul on Wednesday said that Kumar’s act appeared to be unintentional, considering his age.
Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a BJP workers’ convention held at Patipora Lassipora in Pulwama district, Koul said, “The incident involving the Bihar Chief Minister and the girl wearing a hijab was not right. He should not have asked the girl to remove her hijab. However, keeping in view his age, it seems that the act was not intentional.”
He said that its important for everyone to respect individual faith, identity and constitutional values.
During the convention, Ashok Koul, accompanied by BJP State Secretary Mudasir Wani, District President Pulwama Er. Showkat Gayoor, BJP Kisan Morcha leader and programme organiser Arshad Bhat, and senior leader Awataar Singh, interacted with party workers and local residents, listening to their concerns, aspirations and suggestions.
Responding to questions regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Koul reiterated the BJP’s stand, saying that statehood would be granted at an “appropriate time.”
“Jammu and Kashmir will get statehood. The commitment of the BJP and the Government of India is clear. It will be restored at the right time, keeping in view peace, stability and the larger interest of the people,” he said.
Ashok Koul also addressed the admission-related issues concerning Mata Vaishno Devi College, stating that the matter would be examined by the Sangathan committee of the college and Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
“The admission issue in Mata Vaishno Devi College is being looked by the Sangathan committee. We are hopeful that a way forward will be found that safeguards everyone’s’ interests,” he added.
Earlier addressing the public gathering, Koul said that Jammu and Kashmir has “touched new heights” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while acknowledging that there is always scope for further improvement.
“In the Modi era, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed unprecedented development. There is peace, infrastructure growth, expanding tourism and new opportunities for youth. At the same time, an elected government also have a responsibility to work on remaining challenges. The BJP will continue to work for the all-round development of J&K,” he said.
Koul highlighted that the PM Modi-led government has shifted Kashmir’s narrative from terrorism and instability to development, tourism, youth empowerment and economic growth.
He said, “Focused attention has been given to road connectivity, healthcare, education, employment generation and tourism promotion.”
“Kashmir is today hosting international sporting events, cultural festivals and global conferences. Tourism revival has strengthened the local economy and restored confidence among the people, especially the youth, who are now choosing sports, innovation and entrepreneurship over conflict,” he said.
Calling for greater public participation, Ashok Koul urged people to actively support development initiatives and send a strong message of peace and harmony to the world.
“The BJP, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains committed to grassroots welfare. Schemes for farmers, youth, women and the underprivileged are being implemented in a mission mode,” he said.
Koul asserted that the PM Modi-led BJP government would continue to work tirelessly for inclusive growth, social justice and lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that the benefits of development reach every household across the region—(KNO)
