Karachi: Prominent intellectuals, writers, and artists gathered at the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi to voice their concerns over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, calling for peace in the region.
The press conference, held at the Haseena Moin Hall, Ahmad Shah Building, was organized in response to what was termed as “India’s war madness.” Mohammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council, emphasized the need for peace but affirmed Pakistan’s readiness to defend its national security. Referring to a recent attack on May 7 that claimed over 30 lives, Shah highlighted the effective response of the Pakistan Armed Forces, which he said demonstrated Pakistan’s strength and unity.
Shah criticized the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and attacks on mosques, attributing rising regional tensions to the Modi government’s policies. He urged Indian intellectuals to advocate for peace, stating that Pakistani writers and artists have consistently promoted harmony.
Renowned humorist Anwar Maqsood underscored the importance of the military while lamenting the loss of innocent lives. He expressed regret over the necessity of conflict and called for a focus on national progress. Poet Iftikhar Arif, joining via video link, condemned the loss of human lives and called for an independent investigation into the Pahalgam incident, urging the international community to take concrete steps towards peace.
Vice President of the Arts Council, Munawar Saeed, emphasized that war is not a solution and noted the commendable response of the Pakistani Air Force. He expressed sorrow over the suffering of civilians on both sides. Joint Secretary Noor ul Huda Shah criticized Indian media for promoting war propaganda and highlighted the futility of blocking natural resources like the Indus River.
Dr. Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui, a distinguished poet and academic, advocated for peaceful relations and criticized extremist mindsets, calling for a knowledge-based society. He warned that aggressive policies are detrimental to India’s own interests.
The event saw participation from several literary and cultural figures, including Ejaz Farooqi, Secretary of the Arts Council, and poets such as Anwar Shaoor and Fatima Hassan, alongside a large gathering of journalists.