Pakistan-born Canadian columnist Tarek Fatah passed away
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Legendary columnist Tarek Fatah passed away on Monday at the age of 73. The Pakistan-born Canadian columnist was born in Karachi. He was jailed by the Pakistani government for his critical views and charged with sedition.
He was suffering from cancer for a long time.
Born in Karachi, he moved to Canada in the early 1980s. He worked as a journalist, political activist, and television host. He is known for authoring books like 'Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State' and 'The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Smitism.' He is also revered for his progressive views on Islam and opinions about Pakistan.
He is known for his notable quote, "I am an Indian born in Pakistan, a Punjabi born in Islam; an immigrant in Canada with a Muslim consciousness, grounded in a Marxist youth. I am one of Salman Rushdie’s many Midnight’s Children: we were snatched from the cradle of a great civilization and made permanent refugees, sent in search of an oasis that turned out to be a mirage."
His daughter Natasha Fatah confirmed the death on Twitter. "'Lion of Punjab.Son of Hindustan.Lover of Canada.Speaker of truth.Fighter for justice.Voice of the downtrodden, underdogs, and the oppressed. @TarekFatah has passed the baton on… his revolution will continue with all who knew and loved him. Will you join us?"
Actor Ranvir Shorey expressed sorrow over Fatah's death and wrote, "Deeply saddened to know this. He was one of the bravest & wisest people I have known. May his noble soul rest with the Almighty in heaven. He did more than his share of good in this world. My heartfelt condolences to the entire family, and his countless admirers across the world."
Husain Haqqani, Former Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, wrote: "Saddened by the passing of Tarek Fatah, whom I first met in 1972. His death brings to an end half a century of rigorous debate, vehement disagreements, sharing of knowledge & ideas, and much laughter & friendship rare in an era when people do not know how combine these things." He was also a journalist and political activist.
"Heartiest condolences to you Natasha. A brave person. Someone who actually spoke power to truth. He was never afraid of challenging the fanatics. The world has lost a champion," tweeted Amrit Hallan. "Such a brave person to have spoken about the ills of His community, ISIS, and a strong believer in his love for both India and Pakistan and the Great heritage," wrote another user.