On May 26, prominent speaker and author Anand Ranganathan called out the selective outrage and fact-checking practices of the well-known Hindi media outlet, The Lallantop. Ranganathan specifically targeted the outlet’s editor-in-chief, Saurabh Dwivedi, for what he perceived as biased journalism. He criticised them for ignoring BJP’s Nupur Sharma when fake news peddlers shared a doctored clip from a Times Now debate, which led to a massive outcry and violent reactions from Islamist groups. This incident not only resulted in widespread condemnation of Sharma but also in the tragic murders of Kanhaiya Lal and Umesh Kolhe, who supported her.
Ranganathan’s critique of The Lallantop has put him in a similarly precarious situation. Following a statement by a leader from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Ranganathan is now facing threats from AIMIM’s Delhi chief, Shoaib Jamai.
The controversy primarily revolves around the fallout from Nupur Sharma’s comments, which ignited significant backlash. Dr Anand Ranganathan, known for his sharp commentary and fearless approach, discussed this issue on RJ Raunac’s YouTube show. He emphasised the inconsistent handling of controversies by The Lallantop and its editor, Saurabh Dwivedi, particularly contrasting their approach to Nupur Sharma and Vikas Divyakirti, founder of Drishti IAS coaching.
Ranganathan pointed out that The Lallantop quickly provided a platform for Divyakirti to defend his remarks about the Ramayana and Mata Sita, yet they did not extend the same opportunity to Nupur Sharma. He argued that this discrepancy was due to fear of violent backlash from radical elements within the Muslim community, a fear they did not have when dealing with the Hindu community.
Surreal. Instead of apologising to Nupur, the cowards at @TheLallantop are claiming they didn’t fact-check her because she declined to come on their platform. Even Modi declines to come on their platform – does it stop them from factchecking him?
Here, I expose these charlatans: pic.twitter.com/DVaUDMWa7F
— Anand Ranganathan (@ARanganathan72) May 26, 2024
Dr Ranganathan’s critique extended beyond editorial choices to highlight the underlying cowardice influencing those decisions. By exposing this double standard, he highlighted a broader issue within media practices: the selective application of principles based on perceived threats.
The response from AIMIM’s Delhi chief, Shoaib Jamai, was swift and alarming. In a series of tweets, Jamai accused Ranganathan of trying to justify Nupur Sharma’s actions and urged the Muslim community to ‘take note’.
His veiled threats, implying that Ranganathan’s commentary could incite violence, were a clear attempt to intimidate and silence him. Jamai’s rhetoric was not just a personal attack on Ranganathan but an incitement against the very foundation of free speech. By suggesting that Ranganathan’s words could lead to unrest, he aimed to stifle open debate and critical examination of sensitive issues.
The significance of this controversy extends beyond the individuals involved. It underscores the urgent need to defend free speech against intimidation and hypocrisy. The courage to speak out, even when facing threats, is more vital than ever.
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