Javed Akhtar Criticizes Taliban for Legalizing Domestic Violence, Calls on Indian Leaders to Speak Out

Prominent Indian thinker and artist Javed Akhtar has voiced his strong opposition to recent Taliban laws that purportedly legitimize domestic violence. Reports indicate that the Taliban has made provisions allowing for wife-beating as long as it does not result in broken bones.

Call for Religious Leaders to Speak Out

Describing the endorsement of violence as inhumane, Akhtar remarked that the ramifications of such laws are shocking to those outside the Taliban’s ideology. He urged religious leaders in India, including muftis and mullahs, to unconditionally denounce these measures, emphasizing that they tarnish their religion’s image. Akhtar stated that regardless of the reasoning behind such decrees, it is vital not to accept or endorse them.

Stressing Human Values Over Religion

Akhtar further highlighted that fundamental human values and decency should never be compromised. He clarified that the issue transcends religion, insisting that violence in any form warrants condemnation from all people of conscience. He underscored that media representations, including films, need to reflect a commitment to human dignity.

Context of Violence in Cinema

In reference to portrayals of violence in cinema, Akhtar stated, “We, including Salim Khan, have never endorsed or glorified violence, especially against women.” He noted that female characters in their works, such as the classic film Sholay and the less commercially successful Imaan Dharam, were treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Akhtar emphasized that the film industry bears a significant responsibility to uphold and project the right values, which he defined as ones that ensure dignity, respect, and voice for all sections of society.

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