The 19-year-old Srinagar-born former actor, in a hurry to get some media attention, seems to have resorted to unverified claims on the status of normalcy on Jammu and Kashmir.
This is the first time that the organizers of a pride parade have disassociated themselves and condemned the problematic slogans that are invariably spotted at such events.
Netizens have accused Firhad Hakim of furthering the cause of Islamisation in India, appeasing his community members and being a closet Pakistan supporter.
US President Trump has on several occasions stated that he is willing to mediate between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. India has maintained its stand that any talks with Pakistan will only be bilateral.