Shahid Afridi Called a ‘Joker’ by Indian Politician Over Criticism of Indian Army

Pakistan Cricketer’s Criticism Sparks Backlash

Former Pakistan cricket star Shahid Afridi has found himself in hot water after criticizing the Indian Army following the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Afridi called the army “useless” for failing to protect its people during the incident, and accused India of pointing fingers at Pakistan without evidence.

At least 26 people lost their lives in the Pahalgam attack, which has significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. India has responded with various non-military restrictions on Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty.

Owaisi’s Strong Response

Indian politician Asaduddin Owaisi, the chief of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), slammed Afridi’s comments, calling him a “joker” and refusing to even mention his name. Owaisi, an MP from Hyderabad, went further, demanding that Pakistan be placed back on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list for its alleged financing of terrorism.

Owaisi argued that Pakistan should be held accountable for its role in supporting terrorism and emphasized India’s right to self-defense under international law.

Dhawan Chimes In

Adding fuel to the fire, former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan also responded to Afridi’s remarks. Dhawan reminded Afridi of India’s victory in the Kargil war and urged him to focus on improving Pakistan’s own situation instead of making baseless comments about India.

The Pahalgam attack, the deadliest in India since the 2019 Pulwama strike which killed 40 CRPF jawans, has further strained relations between the two nations.