Pakistan comment blown out of proportion, says actor-politician Ramya

Bengaluru, Aug 24: Actor-politician Ramya aka Divya Spandana feels that her remarks on stay in Pakistan during SAARC Youth summit has been blown out of proportion by a section of media.

In a brief telephonic interview with OneIndia, the Sandalwood actor said, "I was responding to a question from a journalist about my experience during the visit to Pakistan. I said they were hospitable"

"The next question posed to me was about defence minister Manohar Parrikar's comment that drew a comparison between Pakistan and hell. I responded saying I did not feel so".

"The media juxtaposed both the statements and played it out as it was my own reaction to the defence minister's comment", the actress said. Ramya, a former MP from Mandya, is facing a sedition charge for praising the neighbouring country.

Ramya further told that the Pakistani citizens spoke to her with a lot of enthusiasm. "A lady told me that she has some relatives staying in Gujarat. We are unable to meet because of visa issues."

The actress said that the people of Pakistan want both the nations to restore peace and normalcy. The SAARC youth summit she participated focused on peace and harmony between India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Afghanistan.

"I just put out my opinion when I was asked to opine. I have the freedom of speech to express myself. India cannot isolate Pakistan and must engage in dialogue to bring in peace and restore friendship", Ramya added.

Stating that she did not contradict Manohar Parrikar's statement, Ramya said that she only said what she experienced.

The actor, however, did not comment on the sedition charge since the matter was sub judice. She said she will follow legal procedure.

OneIndia News