#JNUProtests: Free speech or sedition?

The arrest of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student Kanhaiya Kumar on charges of sedition earlier this month has exposed deep divisions in India, both on the streets of its cities and online. Kumar, the student union president, was arrested after an event organised to mark the 2013 hanging of Afzal Guru, a Kashmiri separatist convicted of a 2001 terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament. In his speech Kumar criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Hindutva Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) party and the right wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Kumar was taken into custody shortly after, and during his court appearance, violence erupted both outside and inside the premises. Five other students were also charged, but they soon went missing. They returned to the campus on Monday and have addressed the student body, but have not been arrested. Kumar remains in detention.

The event has led to protests and clashes across the country. Government leaders have vowed to punish what it calls “anti-national” activity, with the Home Minister tweeting “Those involved in anti-India activities or propaganda will not be spared.” Critics say this as an assault on freedom of speech and argue dissent is being criminalised. Journalists covering the story have complained of intimidation and assault. The issue has opened a polarising debate in India, we take a look at both sides. Tune in at 1930GMT with your comment and questions.

Joining this conversation:

Sanjay Jha @JhaSanjay
Spokesperson, Indian National Congress
sanjayjha.com

Shehla Rashid Shora @Shehla_Rashid
Vice President, Student Union, Jawaharlal Nehru University
shehlarashid.com

Tarun Vijay @Tarunvijay
Member of Parliament, BJP

Rakesh Sinha @RakeshSinha01
Director, India Policy Foundation
profrakeshsinha.blogspot.com

What do you think? Share your comments below.