New Delhi, Jan 2 (NationPress) In a recent outburst, esteemed Kathavachak Devkinandan Thakur criticized Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan following the acquisition of a Bangladeshi cricketer by his Indian Premier League (IPL) team, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The Congress party contended that the government should be questioned regarding its stance on allowing Bangladeshi players to take part in such events. They also highlighted the irony of an India-Pakistan cricket match occurring shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Party officials accused Shah Rukh Khan of being unfairly targeted, suggesting that the criticisms from Thakur, Ram Bhadracharya, and various BJP members were orchestrated to undermine his reputation.

The controversy intensified as Thakur claimed that KKR's choice has deeply offended Hindu sentiments, particularly in light of the reported persecution of minorities, including Hindus in Bangladesh.

Congress National Spokesperson Supriya Shrinate expressed, “I am unfamiliar with this individual, yet it is imperative to question the government. Allegations of continuous, brutal targeting of Hindus in Bangladesh persist. What measures is the government taking? Prime Minister Modi remains silent on this pressing matter, and there is a lack of diplomatic action.”

She also directed inquiries towards Jay Shah, questioning why the Bangladeshi player was permitted to join IPL. Furthermore, she raised concerns about Amit Shah’s involvement in this issue.

Congress leader Rakesh Sinha highlighted selective outrage, remarking on how the criticism stems from Shah Rukh Khan's identity. He pointed out that during the Pahalgam incident, where 26 women lost their husbands, an India-Pakistan match was still played.

He further questioned the absence of religious leaders during such events, asking, “Where were these kathavachaks during the India-Pakistan match? Why are they not questioning the Home Minister?”

He alleged that the uproar is only because it involves Shah Rukh Khan, suggesting that these leaders are politically motivated.

Congress leader Harish Rawat dismissed the entire controversy as trivial, stating, “This is akin to merging two incompatible matters. It’s not even worthy of comment.”

NCP (SP) Rajya Sabha MP Fauzia Khan condemned the selective criticism, questioning the rationale behind the double standards regarding matches with Pakistan and the signing of a Bangladeshi player.

CPI(M) leader Hannan Mollah criticized the intertwining of religion, politics, and sports, asserting that such influences should be kept separate.

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma also weighed in, stating that leaders should focus on the public's issues rather than engage in political theatrics.

Responding to the backlash, BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo suggested that sports and politics should remain distinct, yet acknowledged the emotional response surrounding the treatment of Hindus in Bangladesh. He noted that the government has taken steps to address these concerns.

BJP MP Yogendra Chandolia argued that if Shah Rukh Khan wishes to remain in India, he should select from Indian players, implying that the signing of a Bangladeshi player is provocative.