Mon Feb 24 18:00:36 UTC 2025: ## Shiv Sena Leader Condemns Online Trolls Targeting Shami and Akhtar’s Patriotism
**Mumbai, February 25, 2025** – Aaditya Thackeray, a leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and former Maharashtra minister, sharply criticized online trolls who questioned the patriotism of cricketer Mohammed Shami and screenwriter Javed Akhtar based on their religion. The comments targeted the two prominent figures following India’s match against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy.
Thackeray shared screenshots of online posts that attacked Akhtar after he tweeted his praise for Virat Kohli. The abusive comments included insinuations about Akhtar’s loyalty and even offensive remarks comparing him to a Pakistani cricketer. Akhtar responded forcefully, defending his patriotism and rebuking the trolls. Similar online attacks were leveled against Shami.
Thackeray’s tweet condemned the trolls, stating that they were taking the country in a dangerous direction. He highlighted the hypocrisy of these attacks, noting that the same individuals remained silent about a BJP leader and former minister who was seen enjoying the match alongside former Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi. Thackeray accused the BJP of fostering division within the country to secure political gains, citing instances where the party seemingly prioritizes electoral strategies over concerns about the safety and well-being of Hindus in Bangladesh. He challenged the BJP’s definition of patriotism and Hindutva, emphasizing his belief in mutual respect while denouncing hate speech. The post included a photograph of the BJP leader with Afridi as evidence of his claim.
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