The demon of dissent

Power breeds arrogance, is a universal given, writes Arundhuti Dasgupta

Speaking truth to power has always been perilous. Never more so now than before it would seem, given the death of a journalist who took political leaders to task, the ordeal of two women to put a rapist spiritual leader behind bars and the daily ignominies being heaped upon people who dare to choose a narrative that deviates from those who wield power.

That power breeds arrogance, is a universal given. Ravana, a good king and a devout Shiva bhakt, was undone by his arrogance. As was Duryodhana, who could match his cousin Bhima on strength and valour and almost