Arundhati Roy Speech: A Case Of Sedition?

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NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) The government never expected a reputable Indian author to issue negative statements on a sensitive and disputable issue like Kashmir. However, writers are often known for their indigestible boldness in voicing their opinions and Arundhati Roy is no exception. The novelist and human right activist known for her stand on social justice and equality is facing criticism from the political quarters for her controversial statement in Kashmir. Arundhati Roy has said during her speech in the Kashmir valley that Kashmir was never an integral part of India. Despite severe criticisms for her statement, Arundhati Roy has not apologized and considers it a pity that a nation needs to silence its writers for speaking the truth.

The Kashmir issue has troubled the government of the country since Independence, and any statement made by a person of dignity or repute will only increase the magnitude of the controversy. Arundhati Roy on Sunday said in her speech that British imperialism was replaced by Indian colonialism in 1947. The writer may be jailed on the grounds of sedition if a case of sedition is proved against her by legal experts. A few Indians including novelist Arundhati Roy are of the opinion that Kashmir should be given independence and are asking for a plebiscite in Kashmir.

Arundhati Roy defends herself by saying that she has repeated what has been said and written by eminent writers for decades. Many though are of the opinion that there is nothing in Arundhati Roy’s speech that is seditious. India is a democratic nation and the right to voice one’s opinion liberally is being seen as a safe ground for Arundhati Roy.