Renowned writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar has spoken out strongly on the Pahalgam terror attack, condemning both Pakistan's alleged complicity and the retaliatory violence against innocent Kashmiris in India. Speaking at a FICCI event in Delhi, Akhtar recalled past Indian efforts for peace, including Atal Bihari Vajpayee's historic visit to Pakistan, which, he noted, was met with disrespect. He questioned how dialogue is possible when Pakistan refuses even basic humanitarian gestures, such as accepting its fallen soldiers after the Kargil War. Akhtar sharply criticised recent assaults on Kashmiri vendors in places like Mussoorie, warning that such actions only fuel Pakistan's propaganda. He emphasised that “99% of Kashmiris are loyal to India” and urged restraint.

On social media, Akhtar demanded that the Pahalgam terrorists “pay with their lives” for the massacre that claimed 26 lives. His balanced stance highlights both the need for justice and the importance of protecting India's unity in these volatile times.