Freedom of speech and the role of cultural events in fostering dialogue under the spotlight
Team Clarion
LUCKNOW – Following opposition from BJP leaders, renowned poet Shabeena Adeeb has been barred from participating in the All India Mushaira (poetic evening) in Meerut.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Mamta Malviya informed Shabina about the decision, citing concerns over peace and order.
The mushaira is set to take place at Patel Mandap on Saturday night, featuring 11 poets, including prominent figures like Prof. Waseem Barelvi, Dr. Nawaz Deobandi, Dr. Aijaz Popular Meeruthi, Jauhar Kanpuri, and Azhar Iqbal. The event is part of the historic Nauchandi Mela of North India, which is managed by the district administration, with Additional Municipal Commissioner Mamta Malviya overseeing the programme.
The controversy began when BJP leaders, including district chief Suresh Jain Rituraj and Mayor Harikant Ahluwalia, opposed Shabeena Adeeb’s participation due to a viral video of her reciting a poem critical of the BJP. The leaders expressed their displeasure to the officials, arguing that her presence could disturb peace and order. Suresh Jain Rituraj stated that party workers were particularly upset by Shabeena’s poem, “Laho Rota Hai Hindustan,” which they found offensive.
In response to the objections, Additional Municipal Commissioner Malviya contacted Shabeena Adeeb and requested her not to attend the mushaira.
Despite her absence, the event will proceed as planned. Dr. Merajuddin, the former minister presiding over the mushaira, criticised the decision, suggesting that some individuals have a misguided mentality. He mentioned that the viral video is an old recording and should not be a basis for barring the poetess from the event.
Mamta Malviya confirmed that the decision to bar Shabeena Adeeb was taken to ensure peace and order during the event. The district administration remains focused on managing the Nauchandi Mela and its cultural programmes without disruptions. The mushaira will continue to feature other prominent poets, maintaining its tradition of celebrating literary and cultural heritage.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between artistic expression and political sensitivities, reflecting broader societal debates on freedom of speech and the role of cultural events in fostering dialogue.