"Profound Sorrow": Dalit Voice Founder, Journalist VT Rajshekar Dies At 93 (Photo on X @PCITweets)
Journalist and founder editor of ‘Dalit Voice’, VT. Rajshekar, died on Wednesday morning at a private hospital in Mangaluru. An author, thinker, and Dalit activist, Rajshekar had played a significant role in the intellectual debates of the movement against the caste system in the country. Rajshekar was 93, and his last rites will be held on Thursday at his hometown of Onthibettu in Udupi, Karnataka.
Born in Karnataka, Rajshekar began his journalism career, working with The Indian Express with an extensive tenure of over 25 years. During his tenure in the prominent media house, he established himself as a fierce voice for Dalit rights. He strongly opposed caste-based discrimination, Brahmanism, and the right-wing Hindutva ideology.
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Marking its condolence to the legendary journalist, Press Trust of India expressed its “profound grief and sorrow at the passing away of senior journalist VT Rajshekar.” The journalist and media professionals’ body noted, “Our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends and prayers for the departed soul. May God give them enough strength to bear this loss.”
The Press Club of India expresses profound grief and sorrow at the passing away of senior journalist VT Rajshekar. He was 93.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends and prayers for the departed soul.
May God give them enough strength to bear this loss. #RIP pic.twitter.com/YwWRhGxulL
— Press Club of India (@PCITweets) November 20, 2024
It was in 1981 that Rajshekar launched the internationally acclaimed publication ‘Dalit Voice.’ Among other applauds, the periodical received recognition from Human Rights Watch by calling it India’s most widely circulated Dalit journal.
Though the magazine stopped its publication in 2011, the far-reaching impacts it brought about have been appreciated. Rajshekar’s publication was also known for its harsh criticism of Israel and Zionism, which was sometimes labeled as anti-Semitism.
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In June this year, an effort was made to preserve and commemorate the launch of the online archives of ‘Dalit Voice in Bengaluru by intellectuals and activists. The event sought to protect enduring legacy of Rajshekar’s fearless advocacy for social justice and equality. The event unveiled a digital repository to preserve and promote the insights and activism that the publication put forward.
During his tenure as a journalist, Rajshekar confronted immense challenges. For alleged anti-Hindu writings, his passport was confiscated in 1986, and he was arrested under the Terrorist and Anti-Disruptive Activities (TADA) Act. The arrest was reportedly made for an editorial piece he wrote in his publication. He has also faced retributions over the years, including charges under the Sedition Act and sections of the Indian Penal Code for speaking out his views.
As an accomplished writer, Rajshekar has written over 100 books and monographs on various subjects, including caste, history, economics, politics, and religion. He has also bagged several awards for his contributions to social justice.
