Activists, politicians debate free speech

Eminent scholars, politicians and activists today debated several issues, including efforts to curb free speech in the society and at universities, at a discussion here today.
Most of the speakers at the discussion on 'Safeguarding the Constitution: Are the Pillars of Democracy crumbling?' said the pillars were not just crumbling but the situation was worse than that.
The speakers included CPM leader Brinda Karat and senior lawyer Indira Jaisingh.
Jaisingh said the judiciary, considered one of the four pillars of democracy, was crumbling from within due to non- transparency.
"Proceedings of matters related to Constitution should be telecast to bring transparency and make judges accountable," Jaisingh demanded.

Karat said speaking the truth attracted "anti-national" tags and sedition cases in present-day politics. She accused the BJP-RSS of misusing the state machinery to impose its ideas on other people.

The discussion was organised by Sabka Bharat. It has been holding rallies, public meetings and discussions on democratic values mentioned in the Constitution.
Annie Raja, general secretary of National Federation of Indian Women, and RJD spokesperson Manoj Jha also took part in the event attended by students, and scholars.
Journalists Hartosh Singh Bal, Gurbir Singh and Siddharth Varadarajan were also present at the discussion.