Writers support government in counter-protest

A counter-protest against agitations against the alleged rise of intolerance in the country was held in Mumbai on Saturday wherein several noted artists and writers from the Marathi industry congregated to support the government over the issue.

The event, organised by Vivek Jagran Manch, was attended by Sachidanand Shewade, Abhiram Bhadkamkar and artist Suhas Bahulkar among others. Noted artist Vasudeo Kamat who was to participate failed to turn up as he attended a similar event in New Delhi on Saturday. Industrialist Shriram Dandekar was also present.

Shirish Deshpande, convener of the Manch, alleged that the intolerance debate is an attempt to malign the image of the country and is intended to target the government at the Centre. “Writers who value the awards more than their writing participated in the event,” in which awards were returned, he said.

“Those protesting today in the name of intolerance are the same people who supported Indira Gandhi when Emergency was imposed,” he alleged.