Chennai: The website of Tamil magazine Vikatan was briefly blocked after it published a cartoon depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump. The move came after severe backlash from right-wing groups, but following widespread outrage on social media, the website was later restored.
In an official statement, Vikatan acknowledged that several users had been unable to access the website after the publication of a cartoon showing Modi handcuffed alongside Trump. The magazine reaffirmed its commitment to freedom of expression, stating in a post on X .
“We will stand strong in defense of freedom of expression.”
The magazine noted that a similar incident had occurred earlier on February 10, when another cartoon portrayed Modi remaining silent over the deportation of Indians from the U.S. while appearing handcuffed. Following this, Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai had filed a complaint against the publication.
“For nearly a century, Vikatan has stood firmly in support of free speech. We will continue to uphold this principle,” the magazine stated, adding that they are still investigating the reason behind the website’s temporary blocking.
Reacting to the development, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin criticized the move, calling it undemocratic.
“Blocking the media for expressing opinions is not good for democracy! This is an example of the fascist nature of the BJP. I request immediate restoration of access to the blocked website,” Stalin said.
Meanwhile, Annamalai reiterated his party’s stance, tweeting that a formal complaint had been lodged against Vikatan by two representatives, accusing it of acting as a mouthpiece of the DMK and publishing allegedly offensive content.
By the evening, the website was fully restored.
