Writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar has said he empathises with members of the Hindi film industry for not speaking out against those in power. Bollywood stars and filmmakers are often criticised for not taking a stand against the establishment, but Javed said it is because of a fear of consequences.

Speaking on Kapil Sibal’s YouTube channel, Javed Akhtar explained the difference between the situation in India and in the United States, where Hollywood stars are more outspoken against the government and former President Donald Trump.

"Meryl Streep gave a statement [against the US government], but there was no income tax raid on her. Whether this insecurity is real or not, I don’t want to get into that debate. But the perception exists. If this fear is in one’s heart, then they will worry about the ED, the CBI, an income tax raid... that their files will be opened and they’ll be investigated," he said.

Not just the film industry

Javed Akhtar added that this fear is not limited to the film industry. "They may be in the industry, but they live in the same society. They operate like ordinary people. There’s just more dhoom-dhaam in this profession...I might be one of the few voices speaking up, but I understand why others might not," he said.

Standing up despite advice

Javed Akhtar, known as one of the leading screenwriters and lyricists in Indian cinema, has often spoken openly against all political parties and governments. He also frequently responds to trolls on social media, even though his family and friends advise him not to.

Earlier this year, he said "Yes, absolutely. Even my friends say 'let it be. Why do you want to get into it? You are above all these things'. Forgive me for my immodesty, I mostly feel above these but sometimes you have to come down and tell them that, 'No, you can't take this liberty, and if you will, I'll pay you back in the same coins.'"