MT Vasudevan Nair
Thiruvananthapuram: Renowned Malayalam writer and Jnanpith laureate from Kerala, MT Vasudevan Nair, asked writers and intellectuals to stay alert so that India never have the state of Nazi Germany, Mathrubhumi News reported.
This could be the first in a long time the writer, who has retired from the public sphere, made a political statement that is significant for the whole country.
Addressing the fourth Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters in Kerala’s capital city, he said that eliminating dissenting voices with power and support of the rulers reminds one of the Nazi eras. In the first half of the 20th century, many fled Germany because of the Nazi reign, and it should not happen in India, MT said.
He continued that India’s population is strong enough to stand against such a move, and those aware of the seriousness of the same will come forward.
However, he added that he does not think a Nazi situation will happen in India, but we must be cautious. He said that the small indications that are seen across the country, suggesting an impending Nazi situation, might lead to great disasters, and people must be alert.
He cautioned that India is going through a very difficult period due to ideologies imposed by ruling governments. Writers were facing a hard time and cited renowned Tamil author Perumal Murugan. He said that religion must not be used as a tool for violence, and one must thwart such attempts.
An adored writer by readers, he is a recipient of many honourary awards other than Jnanpith, including the Sahitya Akademi Award.