Violence and threats against Pakistani artists, writers and cricketers in Mumbai: Joint Statement by journalists in Mumbai & Karachi

via Facebook

CONCERNED JOURNALISTS OF MUMBAI & KARACHI

As journalists from Mumbai and Karachi who see each other as colleagues, we are dismayed at the recent violent disruptions and threats against Pakistani artists, writers and cricketers in Mumbai. We in Mumbai would like to assert that this behaviour does not represent the average Mumbaikar. Both Ghulam ali and Pakistani cricketers are appreciated in our city; and the successful book launch of former Pakistani foreign minister khurshid kasuri’s book shows that the people of Mumbai do not share the bigotry of the Shiv Sena.

The Shiv Sena has a hatred for Pakistan in its DNA, and has unfortunately been allowed free rein by all governments. We are ashamed of its goondagardi and want to assert that it neither represents the citizens of Mumbai nor is its conduct a sign of patriotism.

We journalists in Mumbai & Karachi believe we are colleagues who can work together to lessen hostility between our two countries. We know that is what the majority of our fellow citizens desire.