'Olympics don’t belong to China'

The spirit behind the Olympic Games and their relevance for people across the world are the reasons why Aamir has decided to run with the Olympic Flame. Here’s what the actor has to say about the issue, reproduced from his blog....

“Over the last few days I have received requests not to participate in the Olympic Torch Relay. Requests have come in from members of my family, friends, people who are associated with the Tibetan struggle and through my blog. I have read each and every letter, message and post pertaining to this.

I would like to state that I have the highest regard and respect for the struggle that the people of Tibet are going through. I completely empathise with them. Similarly, I have the highest respect and regard for the struggle that the people of Iraq, Kashmiri Pundits who have been displaced, Kashmiris in general, and the people of Palestine, are going through.

I have named just a few instances of human rights violations. Across the world, and indeed within India too, there are several instances and examples of atrocities and human rights violation, which are still continuing. I categorically state that I am absolutely against any form of violence, and I am very upset whenever the basic rights of humans are violated anywhere in the world.

However, I feel that the Olympic Games do not belong to China. In fact, if we were to try and find on this planet a place to hold the Olympics where the government has not been responsible for human rights violations, then we would be left with very few options, if any at all. If I am not mistaken, almost all societies have been responsible for human rights violation either directly or indirectly.

The Olympic Games represent for me the coming together of different people across the world, despite their differences and difficulties. It is an opportunity for sportspersons across the world to showcase their talent, to challenge themselves and others, and for others to watch and marvel at the achievements of the human body, mind and soul.

I am no one to tell any group of people how they should conduct their struggle. I am not a part of it and I am not going through what they are going through. But my heart goes out to them. I request those who have asked me to stay away from the Olympic torch relay to understand that when I do run with the torch on April 17, it will not be in support of China. In fact, it will be with a prayer in my heart for the people of Tibet, and indeed for all people across the world who are victims of human rights violations.”

TNN