A human rights group has intervened in the controversy over this year's Miss Croatia beauty contest, condemning the organizers' denial of the title to a Muslim girl.

The Croatian branch of the Helsinki Committee on Human Rights said the dethronement of Lejla Sehovic -- six days after she'd won the contest -- was a politically-motivated, racist decision, and demanded her re-instatement.

The Miss World organization, which licenced the contest, said a new vote was needed because of irregularities in the judging.

It has scheduled a new vote for later today but Miss Sehovic who is the cousin of a prominent Bosnian writer says she is unsure if she will take part.

The British actress, Vanessa Redgrave, said the judges have violated Miss Sehovic's human rights.