Owaisi Questions BCCI Move on Mustafizur, Links Issue to Sheikh Hasina Stay

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized what he called India’s inconsistent approach in handling issues involving Bangladesh, drawing parallels between the BCCI’s decision to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders and the continued stay of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India. Speaking to reporters on January 5, 2026, Owaisi questioned why Hasina, who has been living in India since fleeing Bangladesh amid protests in August 2024, is being allowed to remain while a cricketer is being asked to leave. He highlighted the hypocrisy, stating that sports should not be mixed with politics, yet the BCCI’s action appeared politically motivated amid tensions over violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

Owaisi pointed out that India continued playing cricket against Pakistan even after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed several tourists. He used this example to argue that bilateral sporting ties have historically been maintained despite serious incidents. In contrast, he said the decision to remove Mustafizur Rahman from KKR, following backlash over violence in Bangladesh, sends a contradictory message. Owaisi added that stability in Bangladesh is crucial for India’s security, especially with China and Pakistan actively engaging in the neighboring country.

The BCCI had last week ordered KKR, co-owned by Shah Rukh Khan, to release Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 roster after he was bought for ₹9.20 crore in the auction. The move came amid growing outrage in India over reports of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. The franchise was permitted to find a replacement if needed. The decision triggered a strong reaction from the Bangladesh Cricket Board, which later decided not to send its national team to India for the T20 World Cup starting February 7, 2026, citing security concerns.

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Sheikh Hasina has been living in India since August 2024 after fleeing Dhaka amid widespread protests. Bangladesh has repeatedly demanded her return to face trial, but Hasina and her family have refused, calling any proceedings a “sham trial” by a radical interim administration politically opposed to her. India has noted the death sentence issued by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal against Hasina. Owaisi urged India to send her back if it is willing to take action against a Bangladeshi cricketer, arguing that consistency is essential in bilateral relations.

The remarks by Owaisi have reignited debates about the role of sports in diplomacy and the handling of sensitive bilateral issues. While some agree that sports should remain separate from politics, others see the BCCI’s decision as a necessary response to public sentiment. The T20 World Cup now faces the absence of Bangladesh, creating logistical challenges for the tournament. As diplomatic tensions simmer, calls for dialogue between India and Bangladesh continue to grow. Owaisi’s comments have added a fresh perspective to the ongoing controversy.

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