Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari recently commented on Hindu minorities, prompting a sharp response from screenwriter Javed Akhtar. Meanwhile, a Pakistani Independence Day video featuring Zardari spread widely across social media. The clip showed him discussing Muslims and a 3–4 percent minority population living there. Its initial description mentions 3–4 percent Muslims, while Zardari’s later quoted remarks specifically refer to Hindus. His comments quickly drew criticism from Akhtar, who responded through X, formerly Twitter.
Mr Zardari of Pakistan who had come into the limelight after Benazeer Bhutto had married says that they tolerate the 3-4 percent Hindu population Lin their country . I understand Mr Zardari you have always being insensitive to all under the sun which is less than 10 % .
— Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) August 15, 2026
Akhtar used the phrase “Mr 10 Percent” while targeting Zardari over those controversial remarks. He wrote, “Pakistan’s Mr Zardari entered the limelight after Benazir Bhutto married him.” Akhtar continued, “You have said that your country tolerates a 3–4 percent Hindu population.” He added, “I understand, Mr Zardari, you remain insensitive towards everyone worldwide below 10 percent.” Through that post, Akhtar directly linked Zardari’s minority comments with an old political taunt.
Zardari addressed an Independence Day programme in Pakistan on August 14. During his speech, he said, “People in India have a different outlook.” Moreover, Zardari claimed, “Their minds carry an agenda, and they believe in Akhand Bharat.” He continued, “However, amid all this, they have forgotten many other things.” Further, the Pakistani President said, “We are Muslims; they aren’t.” Zardari added, “Our Muslim mindset allows us to tolerate 3–4 percent Hindus in Pakistan.” He said, “They enjoy freedom here equal to anywhere else.” Additionally, Zardari claimed, “They would prefer living with us rather than staying alongside them in India.”
Why Javed Akhtar Used the ‘Mr 10 Percent’ Jibe
Akhtar’s 10 percent reference carried a pointed meaning within his criticism of Zardari. Pakistani President’s opponents had previously accused him of corruption. Those critics called Zardari “Mr 10 Percent” while levelling such allegations against him. Furthermore, accusations involving commissions and bribes led opponents to use that nickname. Therefore, Akhtar revived the same phrase while answering Zardari’s comments about Pakistan’s Hindu minority.
