Arundhati Roy: The Cost of Dissent in Modi’s India

In her works of fiction, Arundhati Roy has always tackled social issues that are sensitive to the BJP, India’s current ruling party.

Last month, the lieutenant governor of Delhi granted the police permission to prosecute Indian activist and prize-winning author Arundhati Roy under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Back in 2010, Roy made controversial statements about Kashmir, which led to accusations of sedition. Now, over a decade later, she is facing prosecution for her words.

Roy’s case highlights the shrinking space for dissent in Modi’s India. The BJP government is cracking down on any form of disagreement, using laws originally designed to combat terrorism to silence voices that challenge the status quo. The implications of Roy’s prosecution extend beyond her personal freedom, posing a threat to free speech and democracy in India.

As the world watches, the outcome of Roy’s case will reveal a lot about the state of democracy in India under Modi’s administration. It’s not too late to reconsider the prosecution and uphold the principles of free expression that are essential for a healthy democracy.

Written by Shashi Tharoor, an MP of the Indian National Congress.

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