Veteran lyricist, poet, and public intellectual Javed Akhtar has voiced strong concerns over the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, urging the Indian government to adopt a more assertive and impactful approach in response. Known for his outspoken views on national issues, Akhtar did not hold back as he criticized what he referred to as merely “symbolic gestures” in the face of recurring cross-border violence.
Reacting to the incident, Akhtar remarked that superficial actions—like celebratory firecrackers along the border or diplomatic posturing—are no longer sufficient. “This is not the time for tokenism. Crackers on the border won’t work. What’s needed now is aar ya paar,” he stated, invoking a Hindi phrase that loosely translates to “all or nothing,” emphasizing the need for bold and uncompromising steps.
The attack, which shocked the nation and reignited conversations around national security, prompted emotional responses from many public figures. However, Akhtar’s statement stood out for its clarity and urgency. He stressed that repeated acts of terrorism cannot be tolerated without significant consequences, and that a more robust and strategic response is now overdue.
While Akhtar didn’t elaborate on what specific actions he believes should be taken, his tone made it clear that he is advocating for far more than diplomatic statements or symbolic retaliations. He emphasized the importance of protecting citizens and maintaining national integrity through action that sends a clear message to perpetrators and supporters of such violence.
Javed Akhtar’s comments have sparked discussions across political and social platforms, with some agreeing with his sentiment and others calling for a balanced approach. Regardless of differing opinions, his statement has added a significant voice to the broader debate about how India should respond to terrorism emanating from across its borders.
