Mehbooba Mufti writes: Kriti Sanon and Sukaina Rizvi, a ‘bikini’ or a hijab — what matters is her choice

The choice of what a woman wears has long been a contentious issue in India, with societal norms and expectations dictating appropriate attire based on gender and cultural expectations. For Mehbooba Mufti, the decision to wear an abaya and hijab made her feel more comfortable and confident while campaigning, while for Kriti Sanon, her appearance in a jewellery advertisement for Raksha Bandhan sparked a social media storm over her outfit resembling a bikini or undergarments.

While both women represent two sides of the same coin, the controversies surrounding them highlight the fundamental question of who gets to decide what a woman should wear. In one case, Sanon's outfit was criticised as inappropriate for Indian culture, while in the other, Rizvi's hijab was challenged in court.

Both cases raise the issue of personal freedom and the role of clothing in defining a woman's character. While empowerment is a crucial aspect of women's rights, it should not be limited to certain expressions of personal freedom. Clothing should not become a proxy for judging a woman's character, and women should be allowed to make informed choices about their attire without fear of judgment or discrimination.