Hope Modi will follow advice of Justice PB Sawant
Gustakhi Maaf, Haryana — Pawan Kumar Bansal.
Hope Modi will follow advice of Justice PB Sawant “Politicians should develop a sense of humour and not harbour resentment toward writers who use satire to comment on their functioning. “
Hope PM Narender Modi Will Follow the Advice of Justice P. B. Sawant. Politicians should develop a sense of humour and not harbour resentment toward writers who use satire to comment on their functioning. This was observed nearly twenty-five years ago by Justice P. B. Sawant, then Chairman of the Press Council of India.
The issue has become relevant again in light of the recent amendments to the IT rules by the Union Government, which do not appear to provide adequate protection for satire and parody on social media platforms.
More than two and half decades ago, Justice Sawant—who also served as Chairman of the World Association of Press Councils—seemed to foresee a time when a class of politicians might come to power lacking a sense of humour and showing intolerance toward critical or satirical writing. The current amendments, which allow the government to restrict content it deems objectionable, risk curbing even legitimate satire and parody.
While releasing my book on the politics, governance, and culture of Haryana, titled “Haryana ke Lalon ke Sabrange Kisse” (Multicoloured Tales of Haryanvi Politicians), Justice Sawant made remarks that remain highly relevant today, especially at a time when many politicians appear unwilling to tolerate dissent.
The book, anecdotal in structure, highlights political phenomena such as defections, the “Aaya Ram–Gaya Ram” trend, floor-crossing, and so-called “Bharat Darshan.” It also reflects on the significant role played by Haryanvi politicians in national politics, including their involvement in the ousting of leaders such as Rajiv Gandhi, Chandra Shekhar, V. P. Singh, and Morarji Desai.
What Justice Sawant said:
“The book, with cartoons by Narender Gehlot, makes for amusing and interesting reading. It should be read without reference to the specific individuals identified in it, in order to appreciate its harmless political humour. The antics, idiosyncrasies, and foibles described are typical of politicians who use their power to benefit their near and dear ones. By bringing out this book, Bansal has served a public cause while also contributing to the literature on political satire.
By identifying individuals, the book adds spice and realism to the episodes. I hope that all concerned will receive its contents in the same harmless spirit in which it is published and harbour no resentment toward the author.
In our country, we are not very good at appreciating innocent humour at our own expense. I am sure the book will sell well and entertain many.”
Tailpiece:
I hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflects on Justice Sawant’s advice, reconsiders the IT amendments, and fosters a greater spirit of tolerance.Also stop false complaints to get X account block,Am victim of this as my X account was blocked but it was restored after a week.
This year marks the Silver Jubilee of the book, and I am preparing an updated edition in both Hindi and English. Politicians across party lines have appreciated the work.When book was written only three lalas Bansi Lal ,Devilal and Bhajan Lal were calling shots and fourth lal Manohar lal was not in picture,New edition will cover him and present CM Naib Saini also.