Trying to straighten out the ‘freedom-of-speech’ debate back here in the throes of democracy is like trying to straighten out a pup’s tail. You’ll keep reverting to square one.
This, right here, is the ‘should’ of times. And also the ‘shouldn't’ of times.
With Padmaavat, among others, in the eye of the storm, you are perhaps jammed between the two sides. Worse, anchored to one and threatened by the other.
The desi discourse is riddled by controversies and censorship and this time around, comedian Kunal Kamra, of ‘Shut Up Ya Kunal ’ fame, has seemingly taken a stand.
On Wednesday, Kamra, whose Twitter account was deleted a few days back, put out a Facebook post that clearly outlines the professional hazards of ‘’pissing...powerful people off’’. Kamra claims that his shows have been suffering a setback because organisers are not ready to sanction sketches that may ‘’make fun of people in power’’.
There are consequences, Kamra states.
Even ones that might lead one to vacate one’s house.
So, ‘’choose wisely’’...
Take a look:
What, then, does ‘freedom of expression’ constitute?
Can it exist in isolation without caveats governing them? Or are they always tied to certain dos-and-don’ts that are hinged on majoritarian views?
Where does the fine line emerge?
More importantly, do you get to decide? Or do I?
(We Indians have much to talk about these days. But what would you tell India if you had the chance? Pick up the phone and write or record your Letter To India. Don’t be silent, tell her how you feel. Mail us your letter at lettertoindia@thequint.com. We’ll make sure India gets your message.)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)