TMC Leader Kunal Ghosh Upholds Boycott of Artists Who Criticised Mamata Banerjee During Protests

Senior TMC leader Kunal Ghosh maintained his stance that artists who criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during the RG Kar hospital protests should not be invited to perform at concerts organised by clubs led by ruling party supporters. This statement followed Trinamool Congress National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee's assertion that the party has no issue with showbiz members participating in musical events despite their protest roles.

Ghosh's comments were initially made in a Facebook post, where he suggested boycotting artists who used offensive language against the TMC leader during the RG Kar protests. Abhishek Banerjee, however, emphasised that everyone has the right to express their thoughts and that an artist's statements during demonstrations should not hinder their participation in cultural programmes. "Unlike the 34 years of Left rule, we had never exercised any control in the cultural front," he claimed.

Artistic Freedom and Personal Attacks

Despite Abhishek Banerjee's remarks, Ghosh refused to retract his statement. He explained to reporters that Abhishek Banerjee might not be aware of the intense personal attacks and unsavoury words directed at the TMC chairperson by some protestors following the RG Kar incident. Ghosh stated, "Personal liberty and artistic freedom do not guarantee one the right to utter whatever he likes against the CM of the state for no fault on her part."

Ghosh reiterated his position on social media, distinguishing between legitimate protest and planned uncivilised behaviour involving derogatory language against the CM, government, party, and its workers. Supporting Ghosh, Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu remarked, "We had all witnessed how our leader and the entire state government and administration were subjected to vilification campaign in the name of protests."

Responses from Political Figures

TMC MP Kalyan Bandyopadhyay echoed similar sentiments, stating that some artists had used disrespectful language against Mamata Banerjee, the party, and the administration under the guise of protests. He declared that such individuals would not be allowed to perform at cultural events organised by those who respect the CM and oppose attempts to tarnish Bengal and the party. Bandyopadhyay added that if he encountered any of these "culprits" at music concerts in his Srirampur constituency, he would ensure they leave the stage.

BJP leader and actor Rudranil Ghosh criticised this approach, arguing it reveals TMC's authoritarian nature regarding artistic freedom. He claimed that under TMC rule, only those aligning with party views are welcome, while dissenting voices are suppressed.

The ongoing debate highlights differing views within political circles on balancing artistic freedom with respect for political figures. While some advocate for open expression without repercussions, others stress maintaining decorum when addressing public officials.