The Kolkata Knight Riders' decision to sign Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman has ignited a fierce debate involving political leaders and spiritual gurus over national sentiments and player safety.
Leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT) and BJP’s Sangeet Som have warned they will disrupt matches and "rush the ground" if Bangladeshi players are fielded.
Sangeet Som labeled Shah Rukh Khan a "traitor," claiming he has no right to live in India for investing ₹9.2 crore in a player from a country where Hindus are allegedly facing atrocities.
Critics have issued a direct warning to Mustafizur Rahman, stating he will not be allowed to step out of the airport if he arrives for the IPL 2026 season.
Spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur demanded Rahman’s removal, suggesting his ₹9.2 crore fee be instead distributed as compensation to Hindu families affected by violence in Bangladesh.
In contrast, Congress leaders like Manickam Tagore have defended SRK, stating that "hate cannot define nationalism" and labeling the attacks as an assault on India's pluralism.