As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, celebrated writer and satirist Anwar Maqsood has called for reflection, restraint, and humanity in the face of conflict. Speaking at a press conference organised by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi on Thursday, Maqsood cautioned against the allure of war rhetoric and reminded leaders of the tragic cost of violence.
“Starting a war is easy, anything small can start a war. But ending it is difficult,” he warned, stressing that even military victories bring little solace when innocent lives are lost. “I am more upset about the dead civilians than I am happy about the five Indian jets we brought down. Regret over innocent lives must always outweigh the celebration of military victories,” he reflected.
The comments came in the wake of India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’, during which Indian forces attacked multiple sites across Pakistan on Wednesday night. According to official reports, 31 Pakistani civilians were killed and 57 others injured. In retaliation, Pakistan’s military shot down five Indian jets and destroyed an Indian brigade headquarters and several check posts along the Line of Control. Pakistan’s military spokesperson, the DG ISPR, also reported that 25 Indian drones had been downed since the night of May 7–8. By Friday, state media announced the total number of downed Indian drones had reached 77.
“In difficult times, we understand the importance of the army,” Maqsood said, acknowledging the public’s support for Pakistan’s armed forces. “Today, 250 million people have become soldiers. I don’t have a weapon, but I have the power of the pen.”
He also spoke about patriotism and mutual respect, urging people to recognise the shared humanity that transcends borders. “I respect my flag the same way Indians respect theirs. Countries are not identified by population or area. For me, Pakistan is as big as India is for an Indian.”
Turning to Indian media, Maqsood criticised its role in fuelling hostility. “India’s media can never change,” he remarked, highlighting the dangerous consequences of misinformation and warmongering.
He expressed hope that the recent conflict might prompt a change in Indian leadership’s approach, particularly with regard to its treatment of Muslims. “Modi wins with votes, but maybe after this, he will come to realise that he is not doing right by Muslims, the Muslims of our country or his.”
Despite the rising tensions, Maqsood ended on a hopeful note, calling for regional unity and progress. “Times have changed. No one wants war. We all want our country to move forward,” he said. “We should follow the path our government and our army have chosen.”
The press conference, attended by intellectuals, poets, and cultural figures, served as both a call for peace and a protest against India’s aggressive posturing. Maqsood’s remarks stood as a powerful reminder that in times of conflict, the voice of reason and compassion must not be drowned out.
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