New Delhi: Renowned lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar, in a recent interview, asserted that India had taken a positive step by including members of the Opposition in all-party delegations sent abroad. He emphasised that the Pahalgam terror attack was not merely an assault on the Indian government but an attack on the entire nation.
Speaking about the nomination of Opposition leaders like Shashi Tharoor to international delegations, Akhtar said that although political rivalries exist within India, the nation remains united when it comes to matters of national interest. He praised the Thiruvananthapuram MP, noting Tharoor’s past experience working with the United Nations, during an interview at the NDTV Creators Manch.
Real power lies in the hands of Army
Criticising Pakistan, Akhtar remarked that the country has a history of launching attacks on India without accepting responsibility. He cited the Kargil conflict and the 1965 war as examples, saying the Pahalgam attack was no exception.
He further stated that while many ordinary Pakistani citizens may genuinely desire peaceful relations with India, especially given India’s advancements in business, education, and technology, such relations do not serve the interests of Pakistan’s ruling establishment or military. According to Akhtar, Pakistan’s leadership thrives on perpetuating animosity toward India.
He also noted that the United States is aware of where real power lies in Pakistan, pointing out that the US President chose to meet with Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, instead of a civilian leader. “Democracy is a sham in that country,” Akhtar said. He added that India should avoid treating Pakistan as a monolith and instead engage with those in Pakistan who genuinely admire India.
India’s loss
Addressing the controversy over Pakistani actress Hania Aamir’s role in Sardaar 3, Akhtar said it was pointless to raise objections at this stage, as the film had already completed shooting before the Pahalgam attack occurred. He stressed that any disruption now would only result in financial losses for India.
He added that under different circumstances, artists from both countries, backed by cooperation between their governments, could have resumed creative collaborations.