Overview

• The state-run academy said the four-day Kolkata mushaira was postponed for “compelling reasons” and that new dates will be announced later.
• Jamiat-e-Ulema’s state unit and the Wahyain Foundation objected to Akhtar’s participation, alleging his recent comments hurt Muslim sentiments.
• Some outlets reported the programme as cancelled, though the academy’s official position described a postponement without clarifying Akhtar’s future role.
• Akhtar responded that he receives abuse from both Hindu and Muslim hardliners, saying such hostility reinforces his convictions.
• Public figures and civil-rights groups criticized the decision, and Left student organisations invited Akhtar to speak in Delhi in solidarity.