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Controversy Arises Over KKR's Inclusion of Bangladeshi Player Mustafizur Rahman

The inclusion of Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman in the Kolkata Knight Riders has sparked controversy, prompting Imam Umar Ahmed Ilyasi to demand an apology from Shah Rukh Khan. Amid rising violence against minorities in Bangladesh, concerns have been raised about the implications of this decision. Political leaders have also weighed in, urging Khan to reconsider his team's roster to avoid public backlash. This situation highlights the intersection of sports and socio-political issues, making it a topic of heated discussion.
By Narendra Chaudhary | Jan 2, 2026, 18:27 IST
Controversy Arises Over KKR's Inclusion of Bangladeshi Player Mustafizur Rahman

Imam Calls for Shah Rukh Khan to Apologize

Umar Ahmed Ilyasi, the chief imam of the All India Imam Organisation, has stated that Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan should apologize to the nation. This comes after the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquired Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. KKR, a three-time champion, purchased the right-arm pacer for a staggering ₹9.20 crore during the IPL auction.


Concerns Raised Amid Violence Against Minorities

Following the IPL auction, there have been multiple incidents of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. This has led to calls from various quarters arguing that Mustafizur should not be part of the IPL. Imam Ilyasi emphasized that Shah Rukh Khan should publicly condemn the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh and consider removing Mustafizur from the team.


Imam Questions Khan's Awareness of Atrocities

In a statement to a news outlet, Imam Ilyasi questioned whether Shah Rukh Khan is unaware of the ongoing atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. He expressed disappointment that KKR chose a Bangladeshi player despite this knowledge, insisting that Khan should apologize to the country and issue a statement condemning the violence.


Political Leaders Weigh In

Previously, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay urged Shah Rukh Khan to remove the Bangladeshi player from his team to avoid backlash against the Bollywood icon. He argued that this action would also protect India's interests, especially given the current public sentiment against Bangladesh. Sanjay Nirupam echoed these sentiments, stating that anyone associated with Bangladesh could become a target of public anger.


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