2002 communal clashes
Dr. Singh pointed out that the prize celebrated the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's "deep commitment to the unity and integrity of the country", recalling Akhtar's comments that the 
 in Gujarat were not a "Hindu-Muslim problem, but a clash of secularism and democracy versus fascism and intolerance". Singh also expressed his delight at the fact that "a creative, committed, secular and patriotic Indian" was being honoured in memory of Mrs. Gandhi.
Lyricist Javed Akhtar awarded Indira Gandhi Prize