Nahid Afrin gets more support, Assam TV stars say they stand by Indian Idol sin...

The number of supporters standing by Nahid Afrin, the 16-year-old singer against whom a group of clerics allegedly issued a fatwa recently, is swelling each day. Now, TV stars from Assam, including Devoleena Bhattacharya, Parineeta Borthakur, Shamin Manan and many others, have come out saying they stand by the Indian Idol singer.

A group of Islamic clerics had allegedly issued a fatwa against the singer recently to stop her from performing in any public entertainment event. The youngster, however, remained unfazed and said she will never be cowed down. Assam Chief Minister Sarbanand Sonowal condemned the fatwa and directed police to provide security to the singer. Sonowal had a telephonic conversation with Nahid and assured her of all steps to ensure her security.

Sonowal said in a press statement, “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 meantime, a number of TV actors who hail from Assam have extended their support to the young singer.

Devoleena Bhattacharya

Being an actress I understand love towards acting and performance. No one can stop me from acting or make any limitations to my talent. Similarly, I feel no one can ask Nahid or anyone else to give up their talent. Such directions against practising art and culture is unacceptable and is tantamount to infringement of one’s freedom of cultural rights. Such a move shouldn’t be tolerated. I am happy that Assam government is standing with Nahid and helping her. If such activities can stop someone’s talent it will for sure bring the future of youngsters of Assam in danger.

Shamin Manan

I completely support Nahid Afrin. It is really wrong that she is being asked to not sing. Music is an art and art has no boundaries. One who tries to ban music in the name of religion surely doesn’t know what religion and spirituality stand for. I hope, and I am sure, she will be protected by the Assam government. We all stand by her.

Parineeta Borthakur

I feel an artist is an artist irrespective of his/her caste, creed or religion. As long as we are not harming anyone, all individuals have the right to showcase their talent. Nahid is a young girl, an awesome singer and no one can create boundaries for her talent. I am happy to know Assam government is helping her and getting her justice and allowing her to enjoy her freedom of cultural rights.

Mahika Sharma

It’s really sad that people are trying to create boundaries for talent. I feel many people are caged either by their families, societies or such illiterate groups from flying with the wings of their talent. But I believe Nahid is strong and won’t stop. She will achieve and fight for herself. The Assam government is with her, and we stand by her. We are in India and we have all the right to practice art and culture as per our wish. No one can take away one’s freedom of cultural rights.