This story was first published in the Times of India on July 10, 1999New Delhi: BJP on Friday said it was up to the Star film Dilip Kumar to decide whether to return or not the Nishaan-e-Pakistani award was awarded to Him by Pakistan.
Refusing to be withdrawn into controversy, the Secretary General of the Narendra Party Modi said, “Should leave the wisdom of Dilip Kumar.” On his side, Dilip Kumar said that he could sacrifice anything for India.
The Thespian, who flew here from Mumbai, where Shiv Sena and the others demanded that the return of the Nishaan-e-Pakistan award, said he hoped to meet Atal Prime Minister Behari Vajpayee on Saturday to seek his guidance on this issue.
“What is the award? That someone has can be set for someone’s country and his prestige, anything can be sacrificed,” he told reporters.
Upset the way he pressurized, Dilip Kumar said, “The big voice was made for a small thing.
Some types of circus were ongoing.
Our young Jawan is dying in Cargil.
Can the politicians do something for them?” He asked.
Our staff reporter from Mumbai added: Dilip Kumar’s Wife, Saira Banoo, said in Mumbai, he saw no reason why the actor had to restore the award, which was the highest civilian award of Pakistan.
“The award was given to actors for the advantage in the field of art, for its contribution to social work and community services and to spread peace and harmony among people who cut religious and ethnic differences.
What can the conflict in cargil with this? From the others awards given to him by other countries? “He asked.
Responding to the demands of Shiv Sena which Dilip Kumar returned the award to “proving that he was a true Indian,” said Saira Banoo, “he ‘received an award after consulting Vajpayee and the President.
We have lived here throughout our lives.
Why do we have to prove that We are Indians just because we are born Muslims? Is there another community to prove their loyalty? He is targeted only because of his religion.
“He felt that this problem was given communal colors to divert attention from the failure of politicians to resolve the problem.
“This harassment has also spent a lot of time, which should be used to carry out constructive social work,” Saira Banoo said.