Re: Imran Khan refuses to attend India conclave in Salman Rushdie’s presence
i didn’t say it was idiotic or that it isn’t his right to withdraw. i said it was a lame political stunt and the rationale he gave was low quality. his replies sounded silly. if he had the courage, he could have simply said “barkha, pakistani society is extremely polarized right now and and as an aspiring politician i would be vulnerable to attacks” or perhaps “barkha, i need the electoral support of the religious right wing and this withdrawal enhances my credibility with them”.
not too long ago he had the courage to speak candidly on indian tv when asked about his opinion on blasphemy laws and salman taseer. he openly said it’s just not possible for him to even answer the question at that time because of religious fervor in society. the implication being that he disagreed with the laws and was appalled by salman taseer’s death…but was not allowed to say so. his colors are changing as his political prominence increases.
keep in mind this event was not sponsored or hosted by salman rushdie. nor was the event honoring him or endorsing his work. he was an invitee like many, many others. but a dramatic withdrawal made for an effective political stunt.
i don’t care if salman rushdie abused hindu gods. if it bothered me, nobody is forcing me to like him or respect him.
although i can guarantee that you have not read his book, let’s pretend that you have. can you confirm that you experienced “immense pain” at the hands of salman rushdie? please answer yes or no. if yes, a description of this painful experience would be helpful.