Javed Akhtar (File photo) and Amir Khan Muttaqi (ANI image)
NEW DELHI: Renowned lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has strongly criticised Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India.He said that he “hangs his head in shame” over the reception given to Muttaqi in India and for being hailed as an “Islamic hero” at Darul Uloom Deoband seminary in Uttar Pradesh. In a post on X, he wrote: “I hang my head in shame when I see the kind of respect and reception has been given to the representative of the world’s worst terrorists group Taliban by those who beat the pulpit against all kind of terrorists.” “Shame on Deoband too for giving such a reverent welcome to their ‘Islamic Hero’ who is one of those who have completely banned girls’ education. My Indian brothers and sisters! What is happening to us,” Akhtar added in his post. Muttaqi arrived in India on October 9 for a six-day visit, marking the first trip by a top Taliban leader since the group returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021. During his stay, he met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. In a significant announcement, Jaishankar stated that India would upgrade its Technical Mission in Kabul to the status of a full embassy, reaffirming India’s commitment to Afghanistan’s sovereignty and independence. The Taliban minister’s visit has included a tour of the Darul Uloom Deoband seminary in Saharanpur. His scheduled visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra was cancelled, with officials citing no specific reason.Muttaqi has also faced backlash over gender restrictions during press interactions. A press conference on Friday at the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi barred women journalists, drawing criticism from media bodies and opposition leaders.In response, the minister clarified that the exclusion of female journalists was unintentional, citing short notice and logistical constraints. On Sunday, he addressed a press conference in Delhi allowing participation from both men and women journalists.