Hyderabad: The ‘banishment’ of actor and film critic Kathi Mahesh from the city by Director-General of Police M. Mahendar Reddy on Monday was lauded by a number of people on Twitter and other social media platforms. The Twitter users also called the regional news channel which telecasted Mahesh’s views as the real culprit for fouling the atmosphere.
Several users posted messages on Twitter after Mr Mahender Reddy externed Mahesh for six months from the state for his comments on the Ramayana which allegedly hurt the sentiments of people, leading to a potential threat to the law and order situation. “Congratulations to Telangana state government and also Congratulations to Pawan Kalyan Fans for the action (they) took on Kathi Mahesh. Many Hindus feel relieved now (sic),” said a tweet by Mr Prakash Arige, internal auditor with an MNC.
“We don’t argue with stupid people. We just kick them out!! -Telangana police. Good Job,” read another tweet. A movie artiste, Sunitha Boya posted a photograph of herself with her father with the caption as ‘Full happy me and my dad about Kathi Mahesh (sic),” found support on Twitter. Dr B. Karthik Navayan, a lawyer, tweeted saying, “Criticism of God and religious dogmas (are) part of constitutional rights. Article 19 freedom of speech and Article 51A to develop scientific temper. I (stand in) solidarity with Mahesh Kathi (sic).” Professor G. Haragopal, a noted civil rights activist, condemning the state government for externing Mahesh from the city, said, “This is the rise of fascism, where people with differing views are exiled.”
