Shikhar Dhawan Slams Shahid Afridi Over His Comment on Indian Army

Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan gave a strong and emotional reply after former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi insulted the Indian Army. This came just a few days after a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that took the lives of 26 people. The whole country was already in shock and pain and Afridi’s comments only made things worse. He ridiculed the Indian Army and the Indian media on TV and used bad language to condemn their behavior after the attack. His words got many people infuriated including Dhawan who uttered strong words defending the [Indian Army].

Shikhar Dhawan put a clear message on social media ordering Afridi to desist from making useless comments. He reminded him of India's victory in the Kargil war and asked him to consider how to make his own country better rather than promote hatred. Dhawan mentioned that Indians are proud of their army and have complete faith in its power and sacrifice. His tweet concluded with bold words such as Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Jai Hind which indicated his utmost respect for the [Indian Army]. Most of the fans defended Dhawan and complimented him on standing up.

Afridi had remarked that if India has an army of eight lakh troops in Kashmir and such an attack still occurs then it is useless to have an army. He also mentioned that within one hour of the attack the Indian media began to behave like Bollywood and that it seemed like a film rather than news. He ridiculed the manner in which people reacted and stated that he was taken aback and even amused by what they had to say. Afridi further said that he did not believe that these individuals claim to be educated while speaking in this manner.

These remarks were not only mean but also made at a very sensitive moment when the nation was grieving the loss of innocent lives. The entire episode resulted in an outburst by Indian citizens and the government too. People heavily criticized Afridi for speaking so harshly, particularly at a moment of national sorrow. The Indian government also took some severe measures against the terrorist attack. They decided to suspend the Indus Water Treaty that had existed for years. Attari border was sealed and visas for all Pakistani nationals in India were revoked. These non-military measures demonstrated that India was not going to tolerate any nonsense and would react sternly.

Although the military action was not formally debated following the attack during the all-party conference that followed, there are many people who think that it could still be considered. The opposition and the government appeared to concur that firm action needs to be taken against terrorism and its supporters. The nation was united at this moment of crisis and numerous individuals from various walks of life expressed support for the army.

The entire issue reflects how deep the hurt goes when soldiers and civilians get killed because of terrorism. The people regard such public figures as Dhawan and hope that they will raise their voices when necessary. His message was short but strong. He told that ridiculing the Indian Army will not be tolerated and rather than blaming anyone, it is good to correct the issues in your own nation. His message went viral and gave voice to the emotions of many Indians who were hurt by both the attack and Afridi’s words.

This incident has once again brought attention to the bravery of the [Indian Army] and the unity of the Indian people. No matter the differences or challenges the country stands behind its soldiers. Individuals can differ on politics and policies but when it is issues of national security and the honour of the [Indian Army] there is no doubt of togetherness. Dhawan's outburst was not a response to Afridi alone but a message to anyone who dares to question India's guardians. It was a reminder that the nation will never forget its heroes and will never remain quiet in the face of insult or disrespect.