Bengaluru, July 31: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has assured that his government will not impede freedom of expression, following controversy over a pro-Palestine event, as per a report by the Deccan Herald. This statement comes after the JP Nagar police intervened to cancel a solidarity event at the performing arts venue Ranga Shankara, citing security concerns.
The cancellation and previous police actions—such as booking individuals who gathered on MG Road in October and denying permission for protests at Freedom Park—have drawn criticism from artists and intellectuals. They accuse the government of suppressing pro-Palestine voices.
In response, Siddaramaiah emphasized that his government supports all forms of expression that align with constitutional principles. “The state government will not obstruct activities that are conducted under the inspiration of the Constitution,” he stated. He clarified that creative forms such as storytelling, poetry, theatre, and music are protected as long as they uphold constitutional values.
The Chief Minister attributed the controversy to misunderstandings by local police, asserting that he has directed the director-general of police to prevent such issues in the future. Siddaramaiah urged citizens to remain calm and not misconstrue the government’s stance on freedom of expression.
In solidarity with Palestine, the theatre community has planned a demonstration at Freedom Park on December 2, featuring prominent figures such as writers Devanur Mahadeva and Rahamat Tarikere, and pontiff Panditaradhya Shivacharya Swami.
