Recently, the Bombay High Court has said that to be a patriot there is no need to behave in a hostile manner towards the neighbouring country. The court has made this comment while rejecting the petition demanding a ban on Pakistani artists coming to India. The court said that such demands affect initiatives to promote cultural harmony, unity and peace.

It is a result of the commendable positive steps of the Indian Government that the Pakistan team is participating in the Cricket World Cup being held in India, which is entirely the result of the initiative taken in the interest of international peace, security and harmony. This petition was filed by artist Faizu Qureshi. Which Justice S. B. Shukre and the bench comprising Justice Firdos Punivanala rejected.

The bench said that the demand of the petition emphasizes on making a different type of policy. In fact the court has no power to direct the formulation of such a policy. The present petition is completely without merit. Patriotism does not require showing hostility towards foreigners. Especially towards the neighboring country.

Here it is necessary to understand that a true patriot is one who is selfless and dedicated to his country. For this to happen, the person has to be good at heart. A good person at heart will welcome any activity that promotes peace and harmony within the country and across the borders. Art, music, sports and dance etc. are activities which uplift nationalism and cultures. These activities bring peace, unity and harmony within the nation and among nations. The demand made in the present petition is contrary to good faith.

The petition claimed that Pakistani artists coming to India is an injustice to the artists here, because it affects the opportunities of the artists here. Therefore, by issuing a legal notification, the Central Government should completely ban Indian citizens, companies and firms from employing Pakistani artists. Besides, there should be a ban on hiring services and granting visas to such artists. The government lawyer said that the things said in the petition are completely imaginary. This petition is not maintainable.