Ties with Pak possible only if no terrorism: Javed Akhtar

Varanasi, Mar 12 (UNI) Intellectuals and students led by noted lyricist Javed Akhtar, social activists Teesta Setalwad and Swami Agniwesh, besides students from the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) today carried out a March against Terrorism in this holy city.

The march, which was carried out from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) main gate to the Dwashashamedh Ghat on the banks of the Ganga river, ended with the participants taking a pledge to launch an endless battle against terrorism.

Interacting with newspersons later, Mr Akhtar blamed Pakistan for fuelling terrorism in the country and made it clear that bilateral ties between the two neighbours were possible only, if Pakistan put an end to insurgency and terrorism in India.

''All efforts to forge bilateral ties between the two South Asian neighbours through cultural and sports exchange will be a waste until Pakistan ends fuelling terror in our country,''he added.

Addressing the media, Ms Setalwad and Swami Agniwesh urged the world to take a cue from Kashi (Varanasi) which has set an example by swiftly overcoming the panic created by the terrorists, through the twin blast at the Sankat Mochan temple and Varanasi railway station on Tuesday last.

''Hum Kashi ko sandesh dene nahi kashi se sandesh lene aaye hain'' (we are not here to give Kashi any message, but seek the unique message of bravery sent to the world by the holy city), they added.

UNI NAR-ARS VD BD1713