BJP MLA Sangeet Som Slams Shah Rukh Khan Over KKR's Bangladeshi Player Signing, Sparks Nationalist Backlash
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A controversy has erupted in the cricket world after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sangeet Som criticized Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan for his team Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) decision to sign Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman. Som, an Uttar Pradesh MLA, labeled Khan a 'traitor' for supporting the move, which has sparked a wave of nationalistic backlash amidst rising diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh. The IPL 2026 auction saw KKR secure Rahman for a staggering ₹9.20 crore, a move that has been met with opposition from various quarters. Som, addressing a public gathering, warned that Bangladeshi players will not be allowed to play in India, targeting Khan and the KKR franchise for ignoring national sentiments. He claimed that the team's decisions are out of touch with the nation's feelings, citing instances of donating to Pakistan and signing Bangladeshi players. The controversy comes amid a backdrop of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, including the lynching of individuals from the community. Religious leaders and local organizations have also voiced their dissent against the inclusion of Bangladeshi players. Spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur has issued an ultimatum to the KKR management, warning of 'consequences' if the decision is not reversed. Shah Rukh Khan and the KKR management have yet to respond to the allegations. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not issued a formal ban on Bangladeshi players, the mounting pressure suggests that Rahman's path to the IPL 2026 season may be uncertain. The incident highlights the growing geopolitical tensions between India and Bangladesh, with cricket serving as a flashpoint for nationalist sentiments. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the BCCI and the KKR management will respond to the controversy.
