Never Thought Religion Would be Asked Before Name, Says Gulzar

Poet and lyricist Gulzar is worried about the increasing polarisation and the atmosphere of uncertainty and fear.

Eminent poet and lyricist Gulzar has spoken up on the rising intolerance in society and the threat to freedom of speech. (Photo: ANI screengrab)

Amid growing protests by Sahitya Akademi awardees, renowned poet and lyricist Gulzar said on Saturday that the trend of asking religion before one’s name was never witnessed earlier. Gulzar said that polarisation has intensified and communal harmony is being harmed to such an extent that people do not even have the freedom to speak their mind.

In a resolution passed on Friday, the Sahitya Akademi stressed the need to protect India’s diverse culture, but sidestepped demands from protesters to hold a condolence meet for Kalburgi in Delhi and take action against Akademi President Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari for his ‘insensitive remarks’. It also steered clear of any mention of the Dadri lynching.