Publisher Juggernaut Books have defended its decision to publish author Kiran Nagarkar’s latest book, The Arsonist, in spite of allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
Publisher Penguin Random House had cancelled its contract with Nagarkar for the same book earlier when the allegations surfaced.
Nagarkar’s Book ‘Speaks Urgently To The Political And Social Climate In India Today’
In response to a Twitter user who had quoted an interview of Nagarkar’s asking why his book was being allowed to be published, Juggernaut Books said that the book “speaks urgently to the political climate in India today.”
In October 2018, at least three women had come out during the #MeToo movement accusing Nagarkar of sexual misconduct.
Nagarkar had thereafter issued a statement denying these allegations. Penguin Random House cancelled their deal with Nagarkar for the book soon after.
That is when Juggernaut Books stepped in as publisher.
Social Media Slams Juggernaut Books
After Juggernaut’s clarification, social media slammed the publishers for stepping in to publish Nagarkar’s book.
Many even called to boycott Juggernaut Books.
Nagarkar is a renowned author who was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2001 for his epic novel Cuckold.
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