TMC MP Nusrat Jahan Jain calls for unity in ISKCON Rath Yatra in Kolkata

Addressing the guests, Nusrat said: "I am lucky to get invited by ISKCON here. I am feeling very proud. We people in West Bengal used to celebrate all festivals forgetting our caste distinctions. Under the leadership of our Chief Minister, we believe West Bengal is a symbol of peace and harmony.

Hopefully we remain united towards God, superpower and Allah without considering distinctions of castes. This is the special feature of our state."

Dressed in saree, Nusrat was accompanied by her husband Nikhil Jain at the Rath Yatra, which was inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Days after Nusrat called herself a product of inclusive India in a message to Deoband clerics' fatwa (diktat) over her interfaith marriage, ISKON has invited the TMC MP to the Rath Yatra.

In a tweet, ISKON spokesperson Radharamn Das had said: "Iskcon Kolkata Rathayatra is example of that social harmony where the Lord's chariots are also built by our Muslim brothers. Some of the most beautiful Lords dresses are also made by our Muslim brothers & they are doing it for decades in some of our temples."

Thanking ISKON, Nusrat in a video message had said: "Best wishes to all the members of ISKON. I will be present at the Rath Yatra on July 4. See you all there."

Fatwa controversy in brief

Deoband clerics have issued a fatwa against Nusrat, who married Hindu businessman Nikhil Jain few days ago, stating that a Muslim woman should only marry a man belonging to the community.

Cleric Mufti Asad Wasmi  was quoted as saying by Times Now, “After investigation, we got to know that she married into the Jain religion, Islam says that a Muslim can only marry a Muslim. Second, I want to say that Nusrat Jahan is an actor and these actors do not care about religion. They do what they feel like doing. This is what she showcased in Parliament.”

“She came to Parliament with sindoor and mangalsutra, so it is a waste of time to talk about this. We cannot interfere in her life. I just told her what Shariat says with the help of media,” Wasmi added.

Nusrat replies strongly

Responding to the fatwa, Nusrat said she represents "an inclusive India".

Issuing a statement on Twitter, Nusrat said: "I represent an inclusive India.. which is beyond the barriers of caste creed and religion.. as much as i respect all religions.. i still remain a muslim.. and non should comment on what i choose to wear.. faith is beyond attire.. and is more about believing and practicing the invaluable doctrines of all religions..." (sic)