Anupam Kher backs dissent but draws a line at abuse
Anupam Kher says protest and questioning the government are democratic rights, but abusive language against PM Modi and police crosses a line.
Anupam Kher has joined the conversation around the demonstrations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar with a two-part message: dissent is essential in a democracy, but abuse is not the way to express it.
The actor is currently touring the United States and Canada with his play Jaane Pehchane Anjaane, but he paused to share a video explaining why he felt compelled to speak despite expecting criticism.
Why he spoke now
The protests have been fuelled by allegations of voter-list irregularities and vote theft, with demonstrators demanding Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation. Kher wrote on Instagram that staying silent just to avoid criticism was not an option for him.
“Sometimes, speaking up is essential,” he wrote.
He argued that people who support the protests should be heard, but so should those who disagree with them. He added that criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and challenging government decisions are democratic rights, and supporters of the government have a right to speak up too.
The line he refuses to cross
Where Kher drew a firm boundary was around abuse. He said he was hurt by the language used against the Prime Minister, and objected to insults directed at Modi’s mother, along with what he described as rude behaviour toward police personnel, including women officers.
“Is it necessary to resort to abuse to make your point?” he asked.
He also pushed back on the use of “chaiwala” as a slur. Coming from a humble background should never be treated as an insult, he said, sharing that he is proud to be the son of a Forest Department clerk.
Evidence, not just allegations
Kher repeated his faith in PM Modi’s leadership, pointing to the Prime Minister’s work over the past 12 years. On the allegations against Gyanesh Kumar and the Election Commission, he asked protesters to put forward evidence and follow legal and constitutional channels.
- Peaceful protest is a democratic right.
- Allegations of electoral wrongdoing need proof to be accepted as true.
- Those who want a change in government should seek public support through elections.
What happens next
Kher acknowledged that his statement may invite labels such as “andhbhakt” or “dalal”, but said he would not hide his views to please others. He pointed out that if colleagues and influencers can publicly support the protests, those with a different opinion should be able to speak too.
He closed with a personal note, recalling his grandfather’s words from his struggling days in the film industry: “a soaked man does not fear the rain.” He appealed to people to express their views confidently and peacefully, saying ideological differences should not stop respect between people.
On the work front, Kher was last seen in Tanvi The Great and is set to star in Khosla Ka Ghosla 2, scheduled for release in 2027.
Source: Hindustan Times
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