In an exclusive interview with Timeline, prominent social activist and former Naxalite leader Grow Vasu shared his thoughts on the recent arrest of Vedan, the renowned Rapper in Kerala, who has been vocal about his criticism of Brahmanical ideologies.
Speaking candidly about the case, Vasu believes it highlights the ongoing oppression of marginalised communities in India and the use of state power to silence dissent.
When asked about the broader implications of such cases, Grow Vasu expressed his concerns over the deliberate targeting of people from oppressed minorities for expressing free speech.
“Of course, the oppressed continue to endure dictatorship,” Vasu said. “A recent example is Vedan, the singer. I have been hearing about his case for the last two or three days, and it is evident that people with Brahmanical ideologies are targeting him.”
Vedan, who had been scheduled to participate in an event organised by the Kerala government, was arrested under controversial circumstances, Vasu said.
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Authorities allegedly found him in possession of six grams of ganja, but the case took a strange turn when charges were later filed for possessing leopard claws—an accusation that many see as far-fetched and politically motivated.
“What was the big deal?” Vasu questioned. “Just for six grams of something? And when they couldn’t solidify their case, they began filing charges about tiger claws. Many people engage in such activities, but how many have been caught? No one has been detained, not even for a single day.”
According to Vasu, Vedan’s influence and his critical stance against Brahmanical oppression have made him a target.
Also, read| Rapping For A Cause: Vedan And His Socially Relevant Performances
“Vedan has been making songs about Brahmanical dictatorship, focusing on Dalits and attracting thousands of young people,” Vasu added. “So let the case unfold as it may, but this is not about justice—it’s about silencing voices that speak truth to power,” said Vasu.
The singer’s songs, which focus on the struggles of Dalits and address social hierarchies, have resonated with thousands of young people, particularly those frustrated with the prevailing caste-based discrimination, he added.
