Actor Vikrant Massey has stirred controversy with recent comments suggesting that neither Muslims nor Hindus are under threat in India. In an interview on the podcast Unplugged with Shubhankar Mishra, Massey claimed, “People say Muslims are in danger, no one is in danger. Everything is going well. This is the best country to live in the world.” The actor, currently promoting his upcoming film The Sabarmati Report, which delves into the 2002 Godhra train burning incident, made the remarks that have since sparked a heated debate.
Massey, known for his previous criticism of the ruling BJP party, appeared to shift his stance, describing India as a nation that is advancing in multiple areas, including infrastructure and overall quality of life. He reflected on his changing views over the past decade, saying, “Things that I used to think were bad, they actually aren’t bad.” He also noted that the ideological landscape in the country is less about clear divisions and more about a divide between “Right” and “Anti-Right” ideologies.
However, his comments quickly garnered backlash on social media, with many accusing him of opportunism and attempting to align with mainstream narratives for the sake of promoting his film. Critics pointed out that the timing of his statements, just weeks before The Sabarmati Report’s release on November 15, seemed strategically calculated. Some questioned whether his shift in perspective was driven by personal interests rather than genuine belief.
In response to the criticism, Massey defended his secular credentials, drawing attention to his diverse family background. He emphasized that a truly secular person stands by others “regardless of religion, caste, or background.” Despite the backlash, he remains focused on his work and the narrative he aims to present through his film, steadfast in his commitment to cultural harmony and societal progress.
