At a time when communal forces have raised their ugly head and challenging freedom of expression, the Madras High Court’s order on the Tamil novel ‘Madhorubhagan’ has assumed significance, said S. Tamilselvan, president, Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artiste’s Association, who filed the petition in support of its author Perumal Murugan. “The Namakkal District Collector acted in favour of casteist forces and the order of the High Court proved that it will stand by a writer. But the episode does not end here. Perumal Murugan should give the final touch by coming forward to write again,” he said.
Kannan Sundaram, the publisher of the novel, also requested Perumal Murugan to write again. “I am ready to publish his works if he gives his nod,” said Mr. Kannan. “I take pride because the judges in their judgment have acknowledged our unstinted support to the novel and the writer. We must also thank advocate V. Suresh, who was instrumental in getting such a great judgment which will be quoted in future incidents.” Mr. Tamilselvan said the guidelines evolved by the HC and the panel to implement them should consider the views of writers.
