Hate speech against Vedan: Chief Editor of RSS mouthpiece arrested, released on bail

The East Kallada police on Friday recorded the arrest of N.R. Madhu, Chief Editor of Kesari, the mouthpiece of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), in connection with a case over an alleged hate speech against rapper Vedan.

According to officials, Mr. Madhu appeared at the police station, where his statement was recorded. He was later released on bail. The case was registered based on a complaint filed by Velayudhan, local secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] in East Kallada.

Mr. Madhu, during a speech at a temple event in Kundara, Kollam, had alleged that Vedan’s songs promoted caste-based extremism. He described Vedan’s art as toxic, claiming it injected venom into the minds of the younger generation. He further alleged that those supporting Vedan were sponsored by elements who dreamed of destabilising the country. Mr. Madhu went on to say that if Vedan’s songs were played to attract crowds today, cabaret dances might be staged on temple premises tomorrow.

After being released on bail, Mr. Madhu reiterated his statements against Vedan and said his statements were not aimed at personally attacking the rapper but the politics that he espoused.

Published - May 30, 2025 08:33 pm IST