A Muslim teen singer in Assam has been guaranteed protection by the government after reports of written opposition to her concert, scheduled for March 25 in Central Assam.
Two years ago, Nahid Afrin placed high on Indian Idol Junior, the famous talent search show; since then, she has turned into a major draw in her home state
Ahead of her performance in Hojai on March 25, pamphlets found near the venue warn young people against singing and dancing and describe music concerts and events like a recently-held magic show as against Sharia law. The 40 signatories include local clerics. Hojai is located 162 km from the capital of Guwahati.
Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who heads the BJP government, said, "We strongly condemn putting restrictions on performance by the young talented singer, Nahid Afrin by some organisations." He added, on Twitter, "Spoke to Nahid and reiterated our government's commitment to provide safety and security to artists."
"Allah has blessed me with this voice for singing, and I'll die if I am not allowed to sing," said Ms Afrin to reporters today. "I have received hundreds of calls and messages from the people of Assam and different organisations supporting me," said the 16-year-old, who sang for the Sonakshi Sinha film "Akira" last year.
The teen told the media that the Chief Minister has assured her of adequate security for her concerts.
Two years ago, Nahid Afrin placed high on Indian Idol Junior, the famous talent search show; since then, she has turned into a major draw in her home state
Ahead of her performance in Hojai on March 25, pamphlets found near the venue warn young people against singing and dancing and describe music concerts and events like a recently-held magic show as against Sharia law. The 40 signatories include local clerics. Hojai is located 162 km from the capital of Guwahati.
Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who heads the BJP government, said, "We strongly condemn putting restrictions on performance by the young talented singer, Nahid Afrin by some organisations." He added, on Twitter, "Spoke to Nahid and reiterated our government's commitment to provide safety and security to artists."
The teen told the media that the Chief Minister has assured her of adequate security for her concerts.
COMMENTS
Advertisement
"Immense Joy And Pride For India": PM Modi On UNESCO World Heritage Status For Assam's Moidams Student Leader To 3-Time Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal Is Part Of Modi 3.0 5 Facts About Sarbananda Sonowal, BJP Candidate From Assam's Dibrugarh "Officials To Pay From Salary": Top Court Guidelines On 'Bulldozer Justice' Top Roles For Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy In Donald Trump's Cabinet "Never Thought He Would...": Cop Who First Arrested Lawrence Bishnoi Former NBA Player Kyle Singler's Cryptic Instagram Videos Raise Concerns 18th Century Sculpture Bought For Rs 540 Could Sell For Over Rs 2.68 Crore Donald Trump Sets 'Existential' Battle Against China With Cabinet Picks Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.