Shah Rukh Khan branded a ‘traitor’ over signing of Bangladeshi cricketer

WEB DESK: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has once again come under intense criticism after being labelled a “traitor” by India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over his role in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The controversy stems from his team, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), signing a Bangladeshi player, which drew sharp reactions from certain political circles.

BJP leaders, including Sangeet Som from Uttar Pradesh, condemned Khan for acquiring Mustafizur Rahman, a fast bowler from Bangladesh, accusing him of supporting a neighbouring country amid what they described as ongoing atrocities against Hindus and other minorities. Som stated that if the Bangladeshi cricketer were to arrive in India, authorities should prevent him from leaving the airport, branding Khan’s decision as “treacherous.”

The signing of Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.2 crore by Kolkata Knight Riders has sparked a wider debate on sports, nationalism, and cultural sensitivities in India. Khan, who owns the IPL franchise, has been under severe public scrutiny and criticism for the move, with opponents framing the decision as politically and socially controversial.

The incident has reignited discussions about the intersection of sports, entertainment, and politics in India, placing one of Bollywood’s most prominent figures at the centre of a heated national debate.

Web Desk