This refers to the recent event of Salman Rushdie cancelling his trip on India, following the threats to his life on account of his attending the Jaipur Literature Festival.
I'm extremely disappointed at the way the government has caved in and surrendered to the naked politics of religious fanaticism, in order to gain a few political points for the coming State Elections.
The fact that the voice of religious fundamentalists has once again prevailed over the secular forces, casts a deep shadow over our secular image, and is indeed a sordid commentary on the pluralistic culture and ethos of our vibrant democracy.
The government, by not ensuring protection to Rushdie for his visit, has lost a golden opportunity to demonstrate our religious tolerance to the world.
I'm extremely disappointed at the way the government has caved in and surrendered to the naked politics of religious fanaticism, in order to gain a few political points for the coming State Elections.
The fact that the voice of religious fundamentalists has once again prevailed over the secular forces, casts a deep shadow over our secular image, and is indeed a sordid commentary on the pluralistic culture and ethos of our vibrant democracy.
The government, by not ensuring protection to Rushdie for his visit, has lost a golden opportunity to demonstrate our religious tolerance to the world.
I can understand and share the disappointment, but I think it is a little more complex than just the government caving in. There is the question of how the government benefits by "caving in" and why it cannot take a stance. THen, of course, there is the question of how far artistic license can be taken. ANd finally, there is the question of the artist's integrity and courage to stand up for the consequences of what he has written, and face the threats to prove his beliefs in artistic freedom.
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