The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed intense chaos on Monday as politicians clashed over the controversial outdoor fashion show held at Gulmarg’s popular ski resort. The event, organized by designer label Shivan & Narresh, took place on March 7 during the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, sparking outrage across the region. The fashion show, showcasing the label’s skiwear range to mark its 15th anniversary, drew criticism from multiple political parties and religious leaders for its "insensitivity" towards cultural and religious sentiments. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed the controversy in the Assembly, stating that his government had no role in the event and has already ordered an inquiry into the matter. The controversy erupted when members of the ruling National Conference (NC), People's Democratic Party (PDP), and two Independent legislators jointly raised concerns during the session. They demanded a probe into how such an event could occur during Ramzan, while people were observing their day-long fasts.
 

Opposition BJP members criticized the reaction, calling the outrage "unwarranted." BJP MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania said that Kashmir must "develop an acceptance of all kinds of views and thoughts," urging political leaders to avoid stoking conservatism in the Valley. Following these remarks, the Assembly turned chaotic as NC, PDP, and BJP members engaged in heated arguments that disrupted proceedings for over 25 minutes. Despite Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather’s repeated attempts to calm the House, tensions continued. The Speaker reminded legislators that since an inquiry had already been ordered by the Chief Minister, further debate on the issue was unnecessary. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defended his government’s stance, emphasizing that no official approval was given for the fashion show. “The private event which took place in Gulmarg hurt the sentiments of people,” Abdullah stated. “Such events shouldn't happen at any time of the year. I want to set the record straight—the government has nothing to do with the fashion show. The organizers didn’t seek any permission from us. It was a private show organized at a hotel.”
 

He further added that if the investigation reveals any violation of local laws, the matter should be handed over to the police for action. Religious and political leaders across Kashmir condemned the event. Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq called the fashion show "outrageous" and said it reflected a "complete disregard for local sensitivities during the holy month." Sajad Lone, chief of the Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference, also criticized the event, labeling it as "eminently avoidable." Despite calling himself a person of "liberal orientation," Lone emphasized that such events should respect cultural and religious sentiments. The controversy has ignited public debate over the intersection of culture, religion, and tourism promotion in Kashmir. While some argue that promoting tourism should not clash with local beliefs, others insist that the timing of such events must be carefully considered to avoid hurting religious sentiments. As the inquiry progresses, the controversy continues to stir public discourse, with concerns about how tourism events in Kashmir should be managed in the future to balance cultural values with economic growth.