Sonowal condemns fatwa issued against singer

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today condemned an alleged fatwa issued by some Islamic clerics in the state against an upcoming singer and directed police to provide security to the performer.

In a statement here, Sonowal said, "Such a ruling against practising art and culture is unacceptable and is tantamount to infringement of one's freedom of cultural rights. Such a move cannot be tolerated in a civilised society."

In the light of the alleged fatwa, the chief minister directed police to provide security to singer Nahid Afrin.

Sonowal had a telephonic conversation with Nahid Afrin and assured her of all steps for her security so that she can continue pursuing her vocation fearlessly and bring laurels to the state, the statement said.
 

Sonowal also said the state government is committed to provide security to all artistes in Assam and maintain an environment conducive to pursue the art and culture.

Stating that "the government would not tolerate any move to bog down any artiste of the state," he said "a section of vicious force is hell bound to disturb the age old bonhomie (among all communities) in Assam."

The state's amity and integrity would be upheld at any cost so that people belonging to Barak, Brahmaputra, hills and plains can live peacefully depicting the ethos of unity in diversity, the chief minister assured.

Asserting that the government has accorded top priority to the security of all artistes including Nahid Afrin, he said, "Any attempt to intimidate the artistes of the state would not be tolerated."

A group of Islamic clerics, organisations and individuals have allegedly issued a fatwa against teenaged singer and musical reality TV show 'Indian Idol Junior' finalist Nahid Afrin from the state banning her from performing in public shows claiming Muslims participating in entertainment events is "against Sharia."

The fatwa was allegedly circulated through pamphlets which was widely distributed yesterday among public across Hojai and Nagaon districts in central Assam yesterday.