India, Aug. 25 -- Booker Prize-winning author and activist Banu Mushtaq's selection to inaugurate the world-famous Mysuru Dasara festival has triggered a political row, with senior BJP leaders and an expelled MLA questioning the Karnataka government's decision.

BJP MLC and former minister CT Ravi said it was inappropriate for someone whose religious beliefs are unclear to lead a ceremony that begins with Hindu rituals. "It is not right for a person with uncertain faith to preside over a religious event," Ravi remarked.

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Echoing similar concerns, former Mysuru MP Pratap Simha stated that while he respects Mushtaq's literary achievements, her r...