Maria B denies official notice amid NCCIA inquiry

Renowned fashion designer Maria B has come under the spotlight following a series of controversies involving social media posts, legal notices, and public statements on reli-gious and social issues.

The controversy erupted after a purported government notice allegedly targeting Ma-ria B circulated widely on social media. The designer swiftly dismissed the document as possibly fabricated, stressing that she has not received any official communication from authorities.

In a tweet, she stated, "No, you can't scare me… I will always speak about Islam and de-fend the Islamic family system, Insha'Allah. I haven't received any official notice… it may be fabricated."

Her comment came after news that the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has launched a formal inquiry following a complaint filed by Naeem Butt (also known as Seema Butt).

The complaint alleges that Maria B's social media posts amounted to hate speech against the transgender community, specifically relating to a video in which she con-demned a private gathering in Lahore as "un-Islamic" and urged authorities to take ac-tion.

Maria B has been summoned to appear before the NCCIA on August 26, with officials warning that failure to comply could result in forfeiture of her right to a defence, said the report.

The controversy intensified after earlier police arrests of transgender individuals at the same gathering were dismissed by a magistrate, who cited a lack of evidence, missing permissions, and questionable circumstances surrounding the raid.

Trans activist Nayyab Ali clarified that the attendees were not linked to the trans rights movement, questioning Maria B's decision to amplify the video.

Maria B has previously stirred public debate with outspoken remarks, including her February criticism of the "Unsuccessful Women's March" on Pakistan's National Wom-en's Day, alleging hidden external motives and funding behind the movement.