PUCL condemns protests against Rushdie's visit

Last Updated: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 00:04

Jaipur: People's Union for Civil Liberties has condemned Muslim organisations for protesting against the proposed visit of controversial author Salman Rushdie.

Rushdie is scheduled to attend Jaipur Literature Festival beginning this week and his visit is being opposed by Muslims outfits in different parts of the country.

"Protest against Rushdie's visit by various organisations and political parties is a cause of concern. Barring him from entering the country is legally and morally wrong because he, being a Person of Indian Origin, can travel anytime," Kavita Srivastava, PUCL General Secretary, said.

"PUCL does not have a soft corner for Rushdie's views and thoughts but it does not mean that one's thoughts be stopped by violent protest," she said.

Muslim organisations have warned of protests in Jaipur if Rushdie is allowed to enter the city to attend the Literature Festival.

PTI

First Published: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 00:04

Comments

Petrus - Mumbai
The government promised protection to the late painter MF Hussain should he want to visit India, despite Hindus` protetst against the painter for having made nude paintings of Hindu deities. Hence, the only option open for the government now is to provide security to Rushdie when he visits India.