Experts reflect on democracy and dissent at Bengaluru event on Umar Khalid
Experts gathered at a Bengaluru event to discuss the significance of Umar Khalid and his contributions to democracy and dissent. Historian Ramachandra Guha emphasized the importance of unity among those fighting against majoritarianism. The event, held under heavy security due to protests, highlighted Khalid's multifaceted identity and the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities in India.
- ▪Historian Ramachandra Guha spoke about the need for solidarity among those resisting majoritarian forces.
- ▪Umar Khalid is currently in judicial custody related to conspiracy charges from the 2020 Delhi riots.
- ▪The event featured discussions on the various dimensions of Khalid's identity, including his role as a writer and a symbol of resistance.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
“We need to realise who are fighting for the same cause and not start what Freud may have called the narcissism of minor differences, such as Gandhi versus Ambedkar, Patel versus Nehru, Bhagat Singh versus Gandhi,” said historian and scholar Ramachandra Guha, adding that resisting majoritarian forces required drawing strength from all of them rather than setting them against one another. Mr. Guha was speaking at an event by PUCL featuring readings from the book Umar Khalid and His World. The event was held under heavy security, following protests by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers outside the venue.As he read the book, Mr.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Hindu.
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