Actor Puneet Issar has criticized veteran star Naseeruddin Shah for his recent remarks against the government, accusing him of selective criticism and questioning his silence on issues of national interest.
Issar, while acknowledging Shah as his senior and respected artist, stated that while everyone has the right to express their opinion, criticism should not be selective.
Speaking to IANS, Issar emphasized that Shah often comments on various global issues with a ‘leftist’ or ‘Naxalist ideology’ but remains silent on matters concerning India’s unity. He specifically mentioned groups like the ‘Tukde-Tukde Gang’ and those he perceives as anti-national, asking why Shah doesn’t speak out against them. Issar challenged Shah to enter politics and contest elections if he disagrees with the current government, stating that the government was democratically elected by the people.
Issar further argued that selective criticism is detrimental, especially when national interest is at stake. He urged Shah to raise his voice against those who seek to divide the country, rather than supporting them. Issar expressed his respect for Shah but reiterated that one-sided criticism is inappropriate. This reaction from Issar follows Shah’s recent Facebook video where he displayed a ‘Dimagi Naxal’ badge, a term reportedly coined by Prime Minister Modi, and drew parallels to past protests at JNU, referencing terms like ‘anti-national’ and ‘tukde-tukde gang’.