Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sharply criticised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its instruction to IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. The decision, which has stirred controversy across political and sporting circles, came amid growing diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh. KKR had acquired Mustafizur for ₹9.20 crore in the IPL mini auction, making him one of the most high‑profile foreign signings for the upcoming season.
Addressing the media in Jammu, Abdullah questioned why the player was being targeted rather than focusing on the Bangladesh government. He argued that Mustafizur had committed no wrongdoing that would justify his removal and that the fallout could have wider implications for international cricket. Abdullah suggested that the situation might also impact preparations for the T20 World Cup which India is co‑hosting.
“What fault does this player have,” he asked. “He was ready to play. His team did not want to remove him. Pressure came from above and he was sent away. Will removing him improve the situation in Bangladesh? These actions risk harming sporting ties and mutual respect between neighbours,” Abdullah said.
The BCCI’s directive followed heightened criticism and political pressure within India over violent incidents in Bangladesh in December that targeted members of the Hindu community. Amid that backdrop, the BCCI asked KKR to part ways with Mustafizur, and the franchise complied.
Bangladesh reacted strongly to the development. The interim government ordered a ban on IPL broadcasts within the country, describing the decision as painful and unwarranted. Officials also expressed deep dissatisfaction with the way the issue had been handled and urged that sports be kept separate from political tensions.
In addition to the broadcast ban, the Bangladesh Cricket Board sought to shift its team’s T20 World Cup matches from India to co‑host Sri Lanka citing safety concerns. Many in Bangladesh criticised the removal of Mustafizur, saying it punished an individual for circumstances beyond his control.
Seniority of the controversy has also prompted discussions within the BCCI. Reports suggest that not all board members were consulted before issuing the directive to release Mustafizur, raising questions about internal decision‑making at the board.
Within India, reactions have been mixed. Some political leaders supported Abdullah’s stand, saying sports should not be communalised. Others argued that the decision reflected broader national sentiments and security considerations. The debate has also seen cultural figures and sports personalities weighing in, with calls to protect the integrity of sport and ensure that players are not unfairly targeted.
As the IPL season approaches, the controversy continues to dominate headlines and raise questions about the intersection of politics, sport and diplomacy in the region. Teams and governing bodies now face pressure to balance competitive interests with broader social and geopolitical concerns
