by india today news deskHow he described himself: “Indian born in Pakistan” and “Punjabi born in Islam”. Tarek Fatah was known for his strong criticism of Islamic fundamentalism and the policies of the Government of Pakistan.
The columnist based in Canada passed away on Monday His daughter Natasha Fatah confirmed after a long battle with cancer. He was 73.
Tarek Fatah is known for his views on Islam, secularism and liberal democracy, and has been an outspoken critic of Islamist extremism and terrorism. He has been a controversial figure, with some accusing him of Islamophobia and others praising him for his advocacy of liberal and secular values.
He often expressed his support for the BJP-led NDA government in India.
Lion of Punjab. Son of Hindustan. Canadian lover. Truth speaker. Fighter for justice. The voice of the downtrodden, the downtrodden and the oppressed. Tariq Fateh takes charge… His revolution will continue with all those who knew and loved him. will you join us? 1949-2023,” tweeted Natasha.
Tarek Fatah was born in 1949 in Karachi to a Punjabi Muslim family. His family had moved from Mumbai (then Bombay) to Karachi after partition.
As per a media report, he entered the field of journalism in 1970 as a reporter for the Karachi Sun. Reports state that in 1977 he was accused of treason and barred from doing journalism by the Zia-ul-Haq regime.
Tarek Fatah moved to Canada in 1987.
Tariq Fatah criticizes Pakistan’s blasphemy law
Fatah was known for his critical views about the Government of Pakistan and its policies. He has been an outspoken critic of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, its treatment of religious minorities, and its support for terrorist groups.
Fatah has written several books, including ‘Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State’ and ‘The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Semitism’.
Tarek Fatah worked as a journalist and hosted television programs on various Canadian networks.
Tributes poured in after his daughter confirmed his death on Monday.
“I am an Indian born in Pakistan, a Punjabi raised in Islam; an immigrant to Canada with a Muslim consciousness, as a Marxist youth. I am one of Salman Rushdie’s many midnight children.” Tarek Fatah would describe himself as such. This is how he will be remembered.