RSS mouthpiece editor arrested in Kerala for alleged hate speech against Dalit rapper Vedan; controversy spotlights growing tensions over caste discourse in art and politics.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala police arrested N R Madhu, the chief editor of RSS mouthpiece Kesari on Friday in connection with a case involving alleged hate speech against the subaltern rapper Hirandas Murali popularly known as Vedan.
Madhu appeared before the East Kallada police, where his statement was recorded, and he was later released on bail.
The case was initiated against Madhu based on a complaint filed by Velayudhan, the local secretary of the CPI(M) in East Kallada. During a speech at a temple event in Kundara, Klllam, Madhu accused Vedan of promoting caste based extremism through his songs. He claimed that Vedan's music spreads negative views about caste among the youth and alleged that his "toxic art" is sponsored by elements seeking to destabilise the country.
After his release on bail, Madhu reaffirmed his comments about Vedan, stating that his remarks were not a personal attack on the rapper, but rather a critique of the political messages he conveys.
A section of Sangh Parivar leaders is concerned about Vedan's songs, believing they contribute to divisions within the Hindu community. In contrast, Vedan's music highlights the struggles of social reformers like Ayyankali, who fought for the rights of Dalits in Kerala. His lyrics reflect the inhumane treatment faced by Dalits in the past.
Supporters of Vedan argue that many history books and political parties, including teh Left , have downplayed caste issues. For decades, communist parties focused
primarily on class and dismissed caste as "identity politics." However, in the post-Mandal era, there is growing acknowledgement of the significance of identity politics.
Parties like the CPM, which previously criticised the Congress and BJP for creating separate organisations for Dalits and adivasis, have now established their own Dalit and tribal organisations in Kerala - the Pattikajati Kshema Samithi (PKS) and Adivasi Kshema Samithi (AKS).
In response to the criticism he has received, Vedan told reporters that he is unfazed by the cases or notices. "I will continue to raise these issues. I am not concerned about what others are doing; they may have political motivations," he said.
Supporters of Vedan assert that his songs do not reflect helplessness among marginalised groups, but a strong determination to combat all forms of discrimination. This empowering message resonates widely with youth people, causing discomfort among those with a feudal mindset.
