Arundhati Roy, well-known for her courageous literary exploration of global issues, has been awarded the esteemed PEN Pinter Prize. The prize honors writers who show an unwavering dedication to exposing social and political injustices. It is named after playwright Harold Pinter.

Judges Laud Arundhati Roy's Impact on Writing

Commenting on the prize, Roy expressed both delight and a poignant reflection on the state of global affairs, noting that she wished Pinter were alive today to witness and critique the world's current complexities.

The judging panel included English PEN chair Ruth Borthwick, actor Khalid Abdalla, and writer Roger Robinson. Abdalla praised Roy as a "luminous voice of freedom and justice," highlighting how her works have been a guiding light through global crises and dark times since her debut novel. The judges commended Roy's ability to navigate challenging themes with profound insight and unwavering courage.

Roy, who made history as the first Indian to win the Booker Prize in 1997 for her novel "The God of Small Things," reiterated the importance of writers in confronting contemporary issues and filling the void left by influential voices such as Pinter.

Roy is set to receive the prize at a ceremony at the British Library in October, where she will also announce the award's co-winner - a Writer of Courage selected from a shortlist.

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Prosecution Over Kashmir Remarks

Roy's accolade comes mere weeks after Indian authorities approved her prosecution over remarks made 14 years ago concerning the Kashmir region. Roy claimed that Kashmir has never been an integral part of India. Over 200 activists, journalists, and academics in India have urged overturning this ruling, which was issued under rigorous anti-terrorism statutes.

In an open letter, PEN America strongly criticized Indian authorities for advancing a case against Roy under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The organization demanded immediately dropping all charges and urged amendments to the UAPA to meet international norms.

Director Karin Karlekar denounced the legal harassment faced by Roy, describing it as a severe threat to free expression. She highlighted the broader pattern of Indian authorities using the UAPA against writers, journalists, and activists, emphasizing the risks posed to dissenting voices under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. PEN America urged the Modi government to revise the UAPA to safeguard free speech rights in India.

Speaking to The Guardian, Salil Tripathi, a board member of PEN International, cautioned that despite Prime Minister Modi losing his parliamentary majority in recent elections, there should be no assumption of significant change. Tripathi suggested that the government's prosecution of high-profile figures like Roy warns critics not to expect leniency. He underscored the symbolic significance of figures such as Roy, highlighting the continuing peril confronting dissenters in India. Given these conditions, Tripathi stressed the imperative of free speech and reiterated the age-old wisdom that "the pen is mightier than the sword."

Roy's literary achievements and human rights advocacy remain recognized despite legal troubles back home. This highlights the importance of literature during difficult times. The PEN Pinter Prize honors her creative talent and reminds her of the fight for freedom of speech in India and worldwide.

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