A social media video posted by a vlogger targeting the Kashi Art Cafe in Fort Kochi has sparked a significant political controversy in Kerala, drawing condemnation from both the ruling Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the opposition Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)). The vlogger, identified as Amrit Singh Darren, posted a video on Instagram from inside the cafe, which is a well-known contemporary art space. In the footage, Darren criticized the presence of an artwork featuring Mahatma Gandhi and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, labeling the inclusion of the Pakistan founder’s portrait an insult to national pride. He further objected to the cafe serving beef while using the name “Kashi,” a city of religious significance to Hindus, and suggested the establishment should be renamed. Following the video’s circulation, the Fort Kochi police registered a case against Darren on Saturday. He has been charged under sections 353(2) and 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for allegedly causing public mischief, spreading alarming information, and inciting communal provocation. Police confirmed that while a case has been filed, the vlogger has not yet been arrested. The incident prompted a strong response from state leadership. Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan stated on social media that the attempt to spread misinformation and divide communities was “unacceptable.” He emphasized that the government is committed to maintaining communal harmony and that the law would take its course. Former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also condemned the act, accusing the “Sangh Parivar” of outsourcing hate campaigns to online provocateurs. He asserted that Kerala’s secular spirit would not yield to such politics and called for strict legal action. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar weighed in on the controversy, stating that the future of Kerala—including its cultural and dietary choices—should be decided collectively by Malayalis of all faiths. However, he also criticized the state government, alleging that it fails to act against those making “anti-India statements” or those who support groups like Hamas, arguing that the administration’s response to communal issues is inconsistent. The controversy also involved Diya Krishna, daughter of BJP national council member G. Krishna Kumar, who faced backlash after commenting on the vlogger’s video. While she maintained her personal objection to the display of Jinnah’s portrait, she issued a formal apology for her initial comments, stating she would never endorse content that demeans any community or questions their place in society. Kashi Art Cafe, located in a restored Dutch-style house on Burgher Street, has been a fixture of the Fort Kochi cultural scene since its founding in 1997 by Anoop Skaria and Dorrie Younger. The venue, now owned by Edgar Pinto, has served as a significant site for contemporary art, including hosting events for the inaugural Kochi-Muziris Biennale in 2012.
Article source: Indian Express | Image credit: Indian Express