India's International Booker winner at the centre of a political row

Banu Mushtaq, the winner of the prestigious International Booker Prize, has found herself at the center of a political row in India. Mushtaq was invited to inaugurate a prominent festival in the state of Karnataka, which has sparked a debate about the role of art and politics. The invitation to Mushtaq has been criticized by some political leaders, who have accused her of holding anti-India views. Mushtaq, however, has denied these allegations, stating that she is a writer who is focused on her craft and does not engage in political activities. The controversy has raised questions about the intersection of art and politics in India, with some arguing that artists should be free to express themselves without fear of political repercussions. Others, however, believe that public figures have a responsibility to be mindful of the political implications of their actions. Ultimately, the Mushtaq controversy highlights the ongoing tensions between artistic expression and political discourse in India.