One of the leading actresses of parallel cinema and former MP, Shabana Azmi has criticized Union Affairs Minister A R Antulay's remarks regarding the killing of Maharashtra ATS chief Hemant Karkare on November 26, the day terrorists struck Mumbai.

Speaking with the reporters here on Sunday, Azmi said, “I was surprised on hearing Antulay's remark regarding the death of Karkare." "Instead of political leaders, I have faith in the people of my country.”

“Mr Antulay's remarks were unnecessary and unfortunate. He will not get the political benefit for which he made such a controversial statement. It will rather prove beneficial for Pakistan and harmful for India's claims at the international level. The whole nation will have to pay a price for this statement,” added Azmi.

She said the Indians were clever enough to deny such people the political advantage for which the remarks were made and people making such statements would have to face people's ire in future.

The former MP earlier released her mother Shoukat Azmi book named 'Kaifi and me'.

Shabana Azmi has been a committed social activist, active in fighting AIDS and injustice in real life. She has voiced her opinion on a variety of issues.