The internet is abuzz with a ‘burqa-clad fashion show’ video, sparking outrage from Muslim clerics who have issued threats against the administration of Muzaffarnagar’s Shri Ram College. Led by Muslim students, the event aimed to provide a platform for creative expression by Muslim women. However, the viral videos have drawn objections from the local unit of Jamiat-e-Ulema, claiming that the fashion show portrayed the burqa as an “item for fashion display” and sought to provoke Muslim sentiments.

In the widely circulated videos, burqa-clad participants strutted down the ramp adorned with black glasses and high heels, accompanied by lively music. Alina, one of the participating students, explained that the intent was to demonstrate that the burqa could be a fashionable garment, challenging the notion that it is only meant for home wear. She expressed her preference for showcasing fashion that aligns with the values of the Muslim community.

Dr. Manoj, a teacher at Shri Ram College, supported the students’ initiative, emphasizing that hijabs and burqas can contribute to boosting confidence among Muslim women. He asserted that these garments present growing global opportunities in the fashion industry. According to Dr. Manoj, the students behind the event are hardworking individuals who aimed to showcase the fashionable aspects of hijabs.

Maulana Mukarram Qasmi, the district convener of Jamiat-e-Ulema, strongly disapproved of the fashion show, arguing that the burqa should not be treated as an item for fashion display. He expressed concern that such acts target a specific religion, potentially causing hurt sentiments within the Muslim community. Warning against future events of a similar nature, Maulana Qasmi cautioned the administration, stating that legal action might be pursued if such occurrences persist.

The Jamiat-e-Ulema emphasized that while fashion shows are acceptable, they should not target any specific religion, urging organizers to be mindful of religious sentiments.