Controversy Leads to Sahitya Akademi's Event Cancellation in Kolkata

Sahitya Akademi cancelled an event in Kolkata after backlash regarding an invited speaker, Bengali poet Srijato Bandyopadhyay. The controversy stemmed from his poem 'Abhishap' featuring a contentious line. The decision has been viewed as a response to public sentiment online.

In a turn of events, Sahitya Akademi cancelled one of its Kolkata programs citing 'unavoidable circumstances'. This decision follows public outcry on social media against including Bengali poet Srijato Bandyopadhyay as a speaker.

The controversy grew over Srijato's poem 'Abhishap', which included a contentious reference that critics claimed hurt Hindu sentiments. This has sparked significant debate on social platforms.

The Akademi explained the cancellation was due to unavoidable reasons, although some speculate public pressure influenced the decision. Meanwhile, other scheduled Akademi events proceeded without disruption.

(With inputs from agencies.)