Supreme Court to Hear Plea Against Banu Mushtaq Inaugurating Dasara Festival
The Supreme Court has agreed to urgently hear a petition against the Karnataka High Court’s decision allowing the State government to invite Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq as the Chief Guest for inaugurating the Dasara festival in Mysuru.
The petition was mentioned before Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Thursday, who listed it for hearing on Friday, as the inauguration is scheduled for September 22.
Earlier, on September 15, a Division Bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Joshi of the Karnataka High Court had dismissed multiple petitions opposing Mushtaq’s participation. The petitioners argued that her presence would hurt public sentiments since she had allegedly made “anti-Hindu” remarks in the past.
The High Court, however, noted that Mushtaq is a highly accomplished individual and her participation does not violate constitutional guarantees under Articles 25 and 26 relating to freedom of religion.
“Undisputedly, the festivities are organised by the State every year, and accomplished personalities such as scientists, educationists, authors, and freedom fighters have been invited in the past. Respondent No.4 is a 2025 Booker Prize winner, a lawyer, and a social activist who has held several public positions. Her participation does not offend constitutional values,” the Bench observed.
The Court further clarified that a person’s faith does not restrict them from participating in festivals of another religion, and extending such an invitation does not violate the Constitution.
