Why did Shahrukh come under attack from religious leaders regarding Mustafizur Rahman? What did Swami Rambhadracharya say from Devkinandan Thakur

New Delhi: Before the Indian Premier League (IPL) to be held in March 2026, the political atmosphere outside the cricket field seems to be heating up. After Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) included Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman in their team, this issue has now moved from sports to a debate of politics and ideologies. Team co-owner and Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan has also come at the center of criticism regarding this decision.

Controversy started with the purchase of Mustafizur Rahman

Mustafizur Rahman was the only Bangladeshi player in the mini auction of IPL 2026, who was bought by KKR for Rs 9.20 crore. Immediately after the auction, sharp reactions to this decision started emerging on social media. Some users and political leaders raised questions on this purchase citing the current tense relations between India and Bangladesh.

Statements of religious leaders and leaders

Many religious and political personalities openly expressed their opinion on this issue. Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya made a sharp comment on Shahrukh Khan and said that his decisions are not in accordance with the national interest. At the same time, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri said that the players there should also raise their voice regarding the incidents against Hindus in Bangladesh, so that the message can be sent at the international level.

Earlier, spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur had also raised questions on Shahrukh Khan’s decision and said that the sentiments of the country which gave him recognition and respect should not be ignored.

Sharpness of political reactions

Former Sardhana MLA Sangeet Som also gave a statement on this issue and opposed the participation of Bangladeshi player. After his statement the debate in political circles intensified. Meanwhile, senior leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, reacting to these statements, said that no one has the right to distribute certificates of patriotism.

Maharashtra State Minority Commission Chairman Pyare Khan also supported Devkinandan Thakur’s statement and said that development is not possible where minorities are not safe. He talked about demanding intervention from the Central Government on this issue.

BCCI status

Amidst this entire controversy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that at present no ban has been imposed on Bangladeshi players. The board has said that it is waiting for instructions from the government and till then a ‘wait and watch’ policy will be adopted. In such a situation, it is still considered possible for Mustafizur Rahman to play for KKR in IPL 2026.

Sports vs politics debate

This whole matter once again brings to the fore the conflict between sports and politics. While on one hand the franchise is calling it a purely professional decision, on the other hand it is being linked to national sentiments. In the coming days, it will be interesting to see in which direction this controversy goes and whether it impacts IPL 2026 or not.