Anupam Kher slams abuse against PM Modi in protests
Veteran actor Anupam Kher expresses anger over abusive language used against PM Modi and his mother during recent protests.
Legendary actor Anupam Kher has voiced his deep displeasure regarding the use of derogatory and abusive language directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during recent demonstrations. While acknowledging that criticizing the government is a fundamental right in a democracy, the veteran performer questioned whether such vitriol is truly necessary to make a point.
"Is it necessary to abuse?" asks Kher
In a poignant video message shared on Instagram, Kher addressed the growing tension surrounding protests over alleged electoral roll irregularities. He made a clear distinction between healthy political dissent and personal attacks.
"We all have the right to protest... We should question the government and criticize the Prime Minister... we can disagree with his decisions... all this is part of democracy," Kher stated. However, he expressed profound sadness and anger over the manner in which some individuals are conducting themselves.
The actor specifically highlighted several behaviors that he found unacceptable:
- Using abusive language against Prime Minister Modi.
- Directing insults toward the Prime Minister's mother.
- Misbehaving with police personnel.
- Insulting women police officers during the course of demonstrations.
"No matter how harsh your opposition is... is it necessary to abuse to express your opinion?" Kher asked, emphasizing that he was speaking as an ordinary citizen.
Defending the Prime Minister's background
Kher also took issue with the recurring attempts to mock the Prime Minister's humble beginnings by referring to him as a "tea seller." He argued that such comments are insulting to anyone who rises from an ordinary background.
"How can you insult someone who comes from an ordinary family?" he questioned, noting that he himself often speaks about his own roots as the son of a forest department clerk. He maintained that a person's origins should be a matter of pride rather than a target for ridicule.
A call for constitutional processes
Addressing the allegations being made against the Election Commission and the integrity of elections, Kher urged those with grievances to follow the established legal and constitutional frameworks. He suggested that instead of street protests involving insults, political opponents should engage in the democratic process of winning hearts and minds.
"If you want to change this government, fight the elections. Go among the people. Win their trust. Explain to them that the policies of the current government are bad and your policies are better. Ask for votes," he advised.
An unofficial cultural ambassador
Kher, who is currently traveling internationally with his play ‘Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane’, noted that he feels a heavy responsibility toward his country's image. "Mere saath mere desh ka naam juda hai (My country's name is attached to me) and with this responsibility I consider myself an unofficial cultural ambassador of India," he remarked, adding that recent videos from the country have left him saddened.
The actor concluded by acknowledging that his stance might invite criticism or backlash, but he remained firm in his belief that while differing opinions must coexist, they should never descend into abuse or violence.