Though there is no established record of him coining it, the French philosopher Voltaire is often attributed to the famous phrase: “I disapprove of what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” Across the world, through the years, this sentiment has come to represent one of the strongest values and principles to define a truly democratic society. It recognizes that free speech is not always pretty, it may not always be nice, but it is – beyond any argument – a necessity.
To put it in another way: the very freedom of speech and expression of ideas and opinions, without censorship and restraint, which allows the ugly and controversial topics to be accorded voice, is the same freedom that permits expression of the good and the beautiful. To twist this fragile equation simply to suit one’s own narrative and whim is to engage in plain hypocrisy. A society can truly preserve an open discourse only when it engages with ideas and opinions that are controversial and divergent.
So it is in this context that we must read the warning jointly issued by some local organizations that was published by the local newspapers on Sunday. Through a press release, the organizations warned of “strong action” against any person indulging in making “derogatory and demeaning remarks” against an apex tribal body. This warning, according to the organizations, has been issued in the backdrop of “some person in the social media” making comments against the apex body and its endorsement to recently launched tribal organizations.
While not questioning the sagacity of those leading the four organizations, it must be said that their warning notice is
simply not acceptable in a democratic society. It reeks of intolerance and intimidation. Let us pull no punches in saying that, in the entire human history, no good has ever emerged from any attempts to stifle voices of dissent. Again let us repeat here that the same freedom that allows voices of dissent is what allows expression of the good and of consent. And any attempt to revert the balance is hypocrisy.
In our society, the idea of freedom of speech and expression is still a shaky one. Time and again, we are witness to events in which those in positions of influence and power resort to ways that may help them establish control over narrative of figures and events simply to reflect views that correspond with their own, with scant regard for history and long-term consequences. Any rebellious voice that dares to contradict such views is swiftly stifled, mostly through threats of “strong action” against those with differing opinions.
This notice from the four organizations must be seen for what it is: an ominous sign of intolerance and a clear intent, if not to intimidate, then to relay the message that you can neither question nor have differing opinions on issues that are regarded as sensitive by those in positions of influence and leadership. It is without question that civility must be maintained when airing views through any medium. But simply because a view is not to your liking does not mean that it cannot be given expression. Whether to like it or not, is your choice. But whether someone should say it or not, is not for you to dictate.
