Trolled As ‘Kaafir’ And ‘Jihadi’, Javed Akhtar Says He Prefers Hell To Pakistan

Renowned playwright and lyricist Javed Akhtar has sparked debate once more with an open remark at a public gathering in which he addressed the widespread trolling that occurs online. Akhtar made a joke during the Mumbai book launch of Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's book Narkatla Swarg (Heaven in the Swamp) that he would rather travel to Pakistan than hell if he had to pick between the two.

Prominent politicians such as Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), and Sharad Pawar, the leader of the NCP-SCP, attended the ceremony on Saturday.

Known for his candid opinions, Akhtar said he frequently receives insults and criticism from people on both political and ideological extremes. "I am mistreated by people on both sides. It's not biassed. I would be incredibly unappreciative if I didn't recognise that there are others that value, encourage, and support me as well. However, the truth is that I am abused by both this and that side of the spectrum of extremism," he stated, as reported by ANI.

He went on to say that the abuse had gotten so bad that he would start to question himself if it stopped. He said, "I'll start wondering what mistake I'm making if even one of them stops abusing me." He went on to explain that some people consider him a "jihadi" who ought to be transferred to Pakistan, while others consider him a "kaafir" (non-believer) who will go to hell. "So if I have only two choices-Pakistan or hell-then I would rather choose hell," said Akhtar.

Javed Akhtar on the Pahalgam Attack

At a recent occasion, Akhtar also spoke about the terrorist assault in Pahalgam and urged the Indian government to take a strong stand against Pakistan. At the Glorious Maharashtra Festival, he made a demand for swift and effective measures. "This has happened numerous times, not just once. I implore the Central Government to take immediate action. The border's fireworks won't cut it. According to ANI, he urged, "Take a firm step."

He specifically targeted Pakistan's Army Chief in his criticism of the country's military establishment. In his inflammatory statements, the lunatic Army chief asserts that Muslims and Hindus are two distinct communities. He overlooks the presence of Hindus in his own nation. Isn't there any respect for that community? What sort of a guy is he? Akhtar enquired. "They must be given a befitting response-one that they will remember," he said as he wrapped off his remarks. Otherwise, they won't listen. Despite my lack of political knowledge, I am aware that this is an era of "aar ya paar" (now or never).

India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate After Pahalgam Attack

The horrific terrorist incident that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22 provides the backdrop for Akhtar's comments. Twenty-six people were killed in the attack. Operation Sindoor, which targets terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, was initiated by the Indian government on May 7 in retaliation. Over 100 terrorists connected to organisations including Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul Mujahideen, and Jaish-e-Mohammed were killed in the operation, according to ANI.

Pakistan replied with cross-border fire along the Line of Control and Jammu & Kashmir after the Indian offensive. Drone strikes were also tried in the border areas. In response, India launched a well-planned retaliation that destroyed Pakistani airfield infrastructure, radar equipment, and communication centres at 11 airbases throughout the country.

Relations between the two countries have become even more strained as a result of these events, and Akhtar's scathing comments reflect the elevated public attitude following the most recent wave of cross-border violence.

With inputs from ANI.