Haasan says Hindu extremism present in TN, faces backlash

Earlier, Hindu rightwing groups engaged with opposing parties in a dialogue. But, as this proved unsuccessful, they began using muscle power to clamp down on detractors. KAMAL HAASAN, actor

CHENNAI: Hindu extremism is alive and kicking in Tamil Nadu, actor Kamal Haasan said in a news column on Thursday, giving yet another indication of the direction his impending political journey was likely to take.

In a write-up featured in Tamil magazine Ananda Vikatan, Haasan alleged that Hindu outfits were increasingly turning state festivals into public displays of muscle power and violence. “There is Hindu extremism in Tamil Nadu, and you cannot say there is no Hindu terror,” he said.

The piece was met with widespread condemnation by rightwing groups.

Haasan was answering a query from Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on the increasing influence of the Hindu right on Tamil Nadu politics. Responding in the positive, the actor predicted that Tamil Nadu would reject the path of extremism and once again turn into a glowing example of social justice. “In the past, Hindu right-wing groups never indulged in violence. Instead, they engaged with opposing parties in a dialogue. But, as this approach proved unsuccessful, Hindu groups began using muscle power to clamp down on detractors,” Haasan said, adding that Kerala had shown how such forms of extremism could be contained.

The BJP, which is trying to expand its footprint in the state, criticised the article and dared Haasan to produce proof to back his “irresponsible, malicious and false propaganda”. “A superstar like Kamal Haasan should speak with some degree of responsibility. What proof does he have to make such a sweeping comment?” party spokesperson Narayanan Tirupati said.

Tirupati went on to say that Haasan should speak on corruption in the film industry, instead of making “outlandish” claims.