Snapdeal, one of India’s top three e-commerce firms, has distanced itself from a comment made by actor Aamir Khan on the perception that there has been a rise in intolerance in India in recent months.
Khan, who features in many of Snapdeal’s ads, had said that his wife is starting to have some doubts about whether India’s atmosphere will continue to remain as open and free as it used to be.
Indians have enjoyed more freedom over the last 65 years compared to those living in neighboring countries such as China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Afghanistan etc.. However, there has been a rise in inflammatory speech by right-wing politicians over the last 12 months, which has led to concerns about artists and intellectuals.
“Snapdeal is neither connected nor plays a role in comments made by Aamir Khan in his personal capacity,” the e-commerce firm said today.”Snapdeal is a proud Indian company built by passionate young Indians focused on building an inclusive digital India.”
In an event organized by the Indian Express, Aamir Khan was asked about the so-called rise of intolerant remarks and incidents of violence in India.
Khan said people will feel insecure if they do not see justice being meted out to those who break the law and commit violence in the name of religion. He also said that people also expect their elected leaders to stand up and condemn such acts and reassure the people.
“I also feel that there is a sense of insecurity, a sense of fear..” Khan said, adding that his wife Kiran Rao even asked if they should, as a family, emigrate from India. “She fears for our child. She fears for what the atmosphere around us will be (in the future).. There is a sense of growing despondency.”
Ironically, Khan’s statement has not found much tolerance among some.
Many politicians and fellow actors have criticized Khan for suggesting that there is growing insecurity, and some said that he should leave India.
The latest has been Raveena Tandon, who faulted Khan for “spreading fear”. She felt that rising protests against right-wing politicians has to do with an innate dislike for Narendra Modi, who took over as Prime Minister last year.
“(I) guess all those who did not want PM Modi to become PM want to bring this government down. Sadly, because of politics, they are shaming the country,” she said today, adding that she too was of the opinion that action must be taken against hate-mongers, but “to spread paranoia? Not done!”
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