"You Can Protest Because It's a Democracy": Annu Kapoor Backs PM Modi, Slams Violence
Veteran actor Annu Kapoor discusses the right to protest in a democracy, condemns violence, and expresses full faith in PM Narendra Modi's leadership.
Veteran actor Annu Kapoor has weighed in on the escalating debates surrounding public protests against the government, drawing a sharp line between the constitutional right to disagree and the act of inciting violence. Expressing his unwavering faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the actor reminded citizens that the very freedom to protest is a gift of the Indian democratic system.
The Right to Protest vs. The Act of Rebellion
Speaking with ANI, Annu Kapoor emphasized that while the Indian Constitution grants citizens the right to voice their dissent, this right does not extend to the destruction of public property or the sparking of riots. He described the notion that governments cannot respond to violent protests as a "childish" argument.
To illustrate his point, Kapoor used a relatable analogy: "Suppose I come outside your house and make noise. That is fine. But if I or my supporters pick up stones and start throwing them at your house, and then the people inside your house start beating you with sticks, the protesters cannot turn around and ask why they are being beaten, claiming that it is against democracy."
He asserted that when a protest evolves into a rebellion or takes the form of oppression and violence, any government in power has every right to intervene and maintain order.
Faith in PM Modi and Democratic Mandates
Kapoor was clear about his political stance, stating that he has complete confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He urged those dissatisfied with the current administration to utilize the democratic process of voting rather than resorting to chaos.
"It is a very childish thought. In a democracy, there is a provision that if you do not like a government or someone's leadership, you should vote accordingly when general elections arrive. The government will change."
He further highlighted the privilege of being Indian, noting that in non-democratic regimes, dissenters would face far harsher fates than mere imprisonment.
Historical Context and the Lesson of the Emergency
Reflecting on India's political history, the actor recalled the era of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the imposition of the Emergency. He cited the arrest of Jayaprakash Narayan, noting that when the government perceived a threat—specifically when Narayan appealed to the Army to join a revolution—it was treated as a rebellion and met with swift state action.
No Political Ambitions
Addressing rumors regarding his own political aspirations, Annu Kapoor dismissed claims that he is seeking a position in the government. He specifically addressed whispers about a potential Rajya Sabha seat with a touch of humor.
"Let me tell you that I do not want any seat, neither in the Rajya Sabha nor in heaven," he clarified, describing himself as an ordinary artist. He maintained that he has no desire to enter politics, stating that his only allegiance is to the welfare, security, and well-being of his motherland.