Anwar Maqsood Apologizes to Pakistan Navy, Denies ‘Abduction’ Reports

Karachi: Legendary writer, playwright, and humorist Anwar Maqsood has apologized to the Pakistan Navy and denied reports claiming that he had been ‘abducted’ by naval personnel. Maqsood clarified that he had never made fun of martyrs in his 60 years of writing and reading, and if his remarks had caused any offense, he was deeply sorry.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the 17th Urdu Conference organized by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, Anwar Maqsood explained that for the past two days, he had been receiving phone calls from across the country and abroad, while social media was flooded with rumors about his alleged abduction by the Navy.
Maqsood mentioned that although he had recently made comments about the Navy, he wanted to make it clear that he had never mocked martyrs. He said that he owed his survival and ability to write to the sacrifices made by the martyrs. He added that the thought of mocking them never crossed his mind.
The writer further explained that he had always made jokes about living people, but from now on, he would refrain from making any such remarks, whether about the Navy or anyone else. He emphasized that he could never make fun of martyrs, as their sacrifices were the reason the country exists.
Maqsood also revealed his deep personal connections to the Navy, noting that his relatives and close friends had served in the Navy. He mentioned that Lieutenant Commander Shamshad Ahmad was his cousin’s husband, Admiral Mansoor Haqq was his friend of 50 years, and he had played bridge with Admiral Ahsan for 20 years.
Regarding his earlier comments that sparked controversy, Maqsood recalled that during a recent event, he had praised the Pakistan Navy for its courage, stating that naval personnel were particularly honorable because they died by drowning. His remarks were met with laughter and applause at the event, but after a video of the incident went viral on social media, it sparked outrage among several journalists and members of the public.
Maqsood concluded by reiterating that he had never intended to offend anyone, especially the martyrs, and once again expressed his apologies if his words had hurt anyone.