Even liberalism has its limits

A row has broken out ever since Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani spoke about azaadi at a seminar in New Delhi. The BJP has flayed the government for allowing a seditious speech to be delivered in the national capital, while the government, clearly rattled by the outcry, has promised to take appropriate action.

On the other hand, some have argued that freedom of speech is guaranteed by the Constitution of India and that, as a mature democracy, we should have the capacity to hear even what is unpalatable. As is usually the case, the truth tends to lie somewhere in-between. It is true that freedom of speech is mandated by Article 19 of the Constitution of India. But in any country, even in that beacon of liberty, the United States of America, all freedoms come with certain limitations. Sedition or calls for sedition are invariably not allowed by any nation, and India is no exception.

That Geelani spoke for azaadi is not surprising; that he was given a platform by some extremist liberals is the cause for concern. It is no one’s case that Kashmiris have nothing to be aggrieved about, but it is also clear that if their case is heard louder than that of, say, Nagaland, it is because Pakistan keeps raising the issue, and the spectre of Islam, currently in the limelight for various reasons.

Ironically, Geelani, as has been pointed out by discerning writers, is perhaps the worst man to talk about ‘azaadi’. He has advocated merger with Pakistan and wants imposition of the Sharia (which means limited rights for women and no role for minorities) in Kashmir. It speaks volumes for the hypocrisy of the extremist liberal class that they should back such a man who is against freedom of people.

The contrast is even greater when compared with the call made by Bal Thackeray a few days ago, when he demanded a ban on the burkha. It is a call that not many would agree with, and his motive, given his anti-Muslim stance, is clearly suspect. But instead of arguing that he has a right to his views even if we don’t agree, the liberal class castigated Thackeray for his statements, while Geelani’s speech is sought to be allowed by taking refuge under the Constitution. India’s real tragedy is that it is such hypocrisy by those who advocate free speech that is the worst enemy of the country’s liberalism.