The right to offend. That’s probably one of the most polarising concepts in the world, and, of course, in India. On one side are many governments, courts, legislatures, communities, and individuals, who believe that the right to offend is akin to the right to incite violence, and will thus lead to anarchy.
On the other side are heads of some states, authors, columnists, stand-up comics, and “liberal” society. They believe strongly that the right to free speech rings hollow if it does not protect the right to offend.
As with most concepts, there’s much to be said on both sides.
Devendra Fadnavis alleged Usmani’s speech was anti-Hindutva and spread communal hatred.
MUMBAI: The BJP has demanded strong action against Sharjeel Usmani, a speaker at the recently held Elgar Parishad in Pune.
In a press release, Opposition leader in the state assembly Devendra Fadnavis alleged Usmani’s speech was anti-Hindutva and spread communal hatred.
“It is very surprising that a person comes to Maharashtra, makes statements that hurt religious sentiments and returns to his home state without the government initiating any legal action against him,” he said.
The Elgar Parishad organised by the Bhima Koregaon Shaurya Din Prerna Abhiyan was held in Pune on January 30. Amongst those who addressed the gathering was author Arundhati Roy, former bureaucrat Kannan Gopinath, former Bombay high court judge BG Kolse Patil.