The Kerala police on Friday arrested N.R. Madhu, chief editor of Kesari, the RSS mouthpiece, over alleged hate speech targeting subaltern rapper Hirandas Murali, popularly known as Vedan.
Madhu appeared before East Kallada police, where his statement was recorded. He was later released on bail. The case was filed after a complaint by Velayudhan, local CPI(M) secretary in East Kallada.
At a recent temple event in Kundara, Madhu accused Vedan of promoting “caste-based extremism” through his songs, claiming Vedan’s music spreads “negative views” about caste among youth and is backed by forces trying to destabilize the country.
After his release, Madhu defended his comments, saying they were not personal attacks but critiques of the political messages in Vedan’s music. Some Sangh Parivar leaders argue Vedan’s songs cause divisions within the Hindu community.
Vedan, however, has built his music around the struggles of Dalit social reformers like Ayyankali, highlighting historical injustices faced by Dalits. His supporters say his songs challenge decades of caste blindness in Kerala politics, where even Left parties long prioritized class struggles over caste issues.
Speaking to reporters, Vedan said, “I will continue to raise these issues. I am not concerned about what others are doing; they may have political motivations.”
Supporters say that Vedan’s lyrics reflect determination, not helplessness, inspiring youth to stand against discrimination — a message unsettling to those with a feudal outlook.
