“India-Pakistan Relations Won’t Improve Soon”: Javed Akhtar
Image Source: The Indian Express
Noted lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar expressed doubts about improving India-Pakistan relations in the near future, citing the governments’ failure to bring together refugees from both sides after Partition to share their stories and experiences. Akhtar suggested that this missed opportunity has led to a one-sided narrative, with each side only knowing what happened to their own people.
At the launch of a book titled “Farewell Karachi” by Bhawana Somaaya, Akhtar criticized Pakistan’s army and establishment for blocking peace efforts, while praising India’s professional army and government for being more open to reconciliation. “There are crores of people in Pakistan today who want better relations with India… but unfortunately, this is not in the interest of Pakistan’s army, establishment or right wing,” he said.
Akhtar drew parallels with South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which allowed victims and perpetrators of apartheid to come together. He lamented that India and Pakistan missed a similar opportunity after Partition, which caused massive displacement and trauma on both sides.
The 80-year-old writer emphasized that India’s attempts to improve relations, both diplomatically and culturally, have not been reciprocated by Pakistan at the same level. Despite tensions, Akhtar noted that India has never acted aggressively, whereas the aggression has always been from the other side.
Akhtar’s comments come amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor, targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
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- Aryan Gulati is a dedicated media student based in Meerut with a wealth of experience in various newspapers and media houses. He has numerous published articles and specializes in political and crime news writing, demonstrating a strong commitment to impactful journalism.
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