Supreme Court to Hear Plea Against Dasara Inauguration by Banu Mushtaq

The Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea challenging the Karnataka government's decision to invite Banu Mushtaq for the Mysuru Dasara inauguration. The Karnataka High Court had dismissed related petitions, citing no constitutional violation. Mushtaq's past statements sparked controversy, especially among BJP members.

The Supreme Court has consented to review a plea opposing the Karnataka government's invitation to Banu Mushtaq, International Booker Prize winner, to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festivity. The inauguration is scheduled for September 22, urging an expedited hearing.

A bench comprising Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran agreed to the urgency of the matter after being informed that Mushtaq, a non-Hindu, would perform the Agreshwari puja at the Mysuru temple.

Despite concerns and prior petitions dismissed by the Karnataka High Court, the Mysuru administration proceeded to invite Mushtaq. Controversy arose over Mushtaq's alleged anti-Hindu and anti-Kannada remarks, with objections raised especially by opposition BJP members.

(With inputs from agencies.)