Support for Shah Rukh Khan Amid IPL Controversy Over Bangladeshi Player

Backing for Shah Rukh Khan

On Saturday, Maulana Sajid Rashidi, the President of the All India Imam Association (AIAA), expressed his support for Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. This comes in light of the backlash faced by Khan for acquiring Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman for his IPL team, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Rashidi criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their timing in releasing Mustafizur from the IPL roster, stating that such a decision should have been made prior to the auction. He emphasized that the BCCI was aware of the circumstances in Bangladesh and suggested that the decision to drop the player was influenced by communal narratives. Rashidi affirmed that Shah Rukh Khan acted within the BCCI's guidelines when he purchased the player.

BCCI's Directive Regarding KKR

Rashidi's remarks followed the BCCI's recent directive instructing KKR to exclude Mustafizur Rahman from their lineup for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. BCCI Secretary Devaijit Saikia confirmed that the board had requested KKR to release the Bangladeshi pacer due to 'recent developments'. He also mentioned that KKR would be allowed to seek a replacement for the player.

Political Reactions and Background

The decision to include Mustafizur Rahman has ignited political controversy, particularly in the context of the ongoing issues faced by Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. The selection of the Bangladeshi player by KKR has drawn mixed reactions. Mustafizur was acquired by KKR for a substantial sum of Rs 9.20 crore during the IPL auction held in December of the previous year.

Saikia reiterated that the BCCI's instruction to KKR was a response to the current situation, allowing the franchise to replace Mustafizur if necessary.