Javed Akhtar Condemns India’s Warm Welcome to Taliban Minister, Calls It a National Shame
Bollywood lyricist lashes out at Darul Uloom Deoband for honouring Amir Khan Muttaqi, questions India’s stance on Taliban diplomacy
Uttar Pradesh, Oct 14 : Bollywood veteran Javed Akhtar has voiced strong criticism over the reception given to Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi during his visit to Uttar Pradesh. Taking to X on Monday, Akhtar expressed dismay at the warm welcome extended to a representative of the Taliban, a group widely condemned for terrorism.
Muttaqi visited Darul Uloom Deoband in Saharanpur on Saturday, where he was greeted with flowers, applause, and a formal reception by the seminary’s officials, students, and local residents. The move immediately sparked a heated debate online.
“I hang my head in shame when I see the kind of respect and reception that has been given to the representative of the world’s worst terrorist group Taliban, by those who beat the pulpit against all kinds of terrorists,” Akhtar wrote. Criticising the seminary, he added, “Shame on Deoband too for giving such a reverent welcome to their ‘Islamic hero’ who has banned girls’ education. My Indian brothers and sisters, what is happening to us?”
While most Bollywood figures avoid politically sensitive topics, Akhtar has often spoken out on national and global issues. So far, no other film industry personality has publicly commented on Muttaqi’s visit.
Muttaqi’s visit to India marked his first trip since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. During his stay, he met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi, discussing diplomatic and development cooperation. India also announced plans to upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to a fully functional embassy.
During his address at Deoband, Muttaqi highlighted plans for sending new diplomats and encouraged visits to Kabul. He also called for collaboration on regional projects, including the Chabahar port in Iran, while warning Pakistan to refrain from interfering in Afghanistan.
Earlier in the week, female journalists were prevented from attending a press conference at the Afghan embassy in Delhi, drawing criticism from media groups and politicians. Although a second inclusive briefing was later organised, reports indicate that Taliban restrictions on girls’ education and women’s participation in public life remain in place.
Akhtar’s comments underscore the growing concern among Indian public figures regarding India’s engagement with the Taliban, sparking debate on the ethics of honouring controversial foreign leaders.
