FIR filed against writer BT Lalita Naik over remarks on Ramayana characters

Davangere: A fresh controversy has erupted in Karnataka after an FIR was registered against noted progressive writer and former minister B.T. Lalita Naik for allegedly making statements that hurt religious sentiments. The case was filed following her remarks during a public interaction held at EVK College in Davangere on November 23.

During the programme, Lalita Naik reportedly stated that characters such as Rama, Lakshmana and Ravana from the Ramayana were “not ideal figures but cruel ones.” Her comments triggered immediate backlash from several religious groups and pro-Hindu activists, who accused her of deliberately insulting revered figures.

The writer also criticised what she described as “blind devotion,” saying that superstition mixed with religious belief weakens people’s analytical abilities. She argued that temples today push people further into superstition, while libraries encourage rational thinking and knowledge. “Education is the only way to free society from irrational beliefs,” she added.

Expanding on her argument, Lalita Naik said that human flaws and moral dilemmas form the foundation of literature and epics. She pointed out that Buddha, a symbol of peace, is depicted without weapons, whereas Mahatma Gandhi is remembered with the charkha, symbolising non-violence. Contrasting this, she criticised the recent cultural portrayal of Lord Rama with a bow and arrow, stating that such imagery distorts the essence of peace.

Following complaints submitted by members of local Hindu organisations, Davangere police registered an FIR under sections related to hurting religious sentiments and promoting enmity. Police officials confirmed that the statements made during the event are being examined, and further investigation is underway.

The incident has sparked a heated debate across literary and political circles, with some defending Lalita Naik’s right to free expression while others calling her remarks provocative and disrespectful.

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