Carnival to be held for protecting free speech

Titled ‘Karuthurimai Potruthum’, the event would be held at the Kamarajar hall in Teynampet. 

“In many States there is a threat to the freedom of media and freedom of expression. Regressive forces are putting pressure on this freedom. Violent attacks on journalists, writers, artistes and creative persons have taken place in various forms,” said Aadhavan Dheetchanya, General Secretary, TNPWAA. 

Prominent personalities like CPM’s Sitaram Yechury, Professor Kancha Ilaiah, Retired Justice K Chandru, actors, Sathyaraj, Rohini, journalists Nakkheeran Gopal, poet Manushya Puthiran and VCK leader D Ravikumar are expected to participate in the carnival. 

Along with them, more than a hundred folk artistes, painters and sculptors will be part of the inaugural event. 

Speaking about its objectives, Dheetchanya said the carnival would aim to foster dialogue between media personnel, civil society organisations and the scientific and academic community to build resistance against the onslaught on freedom of speech and democracy. 

Concerts, theatrical performances, painting exhibition, display of sculptures will mark the carnival, he said.