Support has been pouring in for writer S Hareesh who was forced to withdraw his novel Meesha after he faced threats and protests from the right-wing.
Hareesh’s novel Meesha was being published as a series in the weekly Mathrubhumi.
"Writing shouldn't be stopped owing to the threat from fundamentalists. The civic society and writers should strongly react against this," said G Sudhakaran, senior CPI (M) leader and Kerala Public Works Minister.
Veteran CPI (M) leader and former Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan too has asked the writer to reconsider his decision to withdraw the novel
Hareesh, the winner of Kerala Sahitya Akademi award, 2018, withdrew the novel after he was subjected to abuse by right-wing activists on Facebook. Users called the novel “an insult to Hinduism” and the comments even included threats to Hareesh and his family. He was forced to deactivate his Facebook account following the threats.
Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala stated that was a matter of shame that Hareesh had to withdraw the novel.
He also blamed the Kerala Home Department for not taking any action against those targeted the author on social media and said it was “mysterious” that the government had not taken any action.
Writer Saradakutty too has backed Hareesh and expressed her support in a Facebook post.
"Hareesh, I can't remember any other day when I had gone through such helplessness for language. Whatever I write, whatever way I explain… becomes wrong. The situation, to bow before communal, fascist forces, is scary. I am aware of the pressure you had gone through in these days. I am also suffering the pain, humiliation and helplessness along with you. I won't betray you, you won't be alone, I am reassuring that I am with you,” she wrote.
Renowned poet Sachithanandan said that it's a matter of high concern that a writer withdraws his novel.
"The situation that led to a writer to this is a dark indication of the threat freedom of expression facing in Kerala from the right wing,” he said.
Eminent writer M Mukundan said that the published extracts of the novel Meesha will forever remain in history.
Hareesh is a noted short story writer known for his collection titled Aadam. He said that he withdrew the novel at a situation when abuse and threats went to the extent of destroying the peace in his family life. He also said that the novel will be later published as a book when the society's mind matures.