SC to Hear Challenge Over Karnataka’s Dasara Invite to Booker Winner Banu Mushtaq

Quick Summary:

• The Supreme Court of India has agreed to here a petition challenging the Karnataka government’s decision to invite Booker Prize winner adn activist Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festival on September 22, 2025.
• Petitions questioned her invitation due to her being a “non-Hindu” performing rituals at Chamundeshwari temple, as well as alleged past “anti-Hindu and anti-Kannada” comments.
• On September 15, the Karnataka High Court declined to intervene in the matter, highlighting India’s secular values and rejecting claims that constitutional or legal rights had been violated.
• Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders criticized the Congress government for its selection of Banu Mushtaq, with BJP MLC CT Ravi deeming it inappropriate for someone “with uncertain faith” to preside over religious activities.
• Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar defended the decision, asserting that Mysuru’s Chamundi Hills is open to people of all faiths.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The controversy surrounding this year’s Mysuru Dasara inauguration underscores ongoing debates on secularism versus traditional practices in modern India.The High Court’s decision reflects India’s constitutional commitment to secularism by upholding inclusivity at state-led cultural events while dismissing objections rooted in religious exclusivity. However, public doubts about such decisions indicate deep societal divisions regarding religion’s role in official functions-a debate not unique to Karnataka but emblematic of broader tensions across India. Moving forward, this case could set legal benchmarks about religion’s interface with governmental celebrations or reaffirm existing frameworks ensuring equitable inclusion under law.

Read more: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka