Changanassery: NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair has said the remarks made in the Malayalam novel Meesa hurt the sentiments of Hindus.
"Nobody can insult a religion in the name of freedom of expression. People who support these remarks have ulterior motives," he said.
Author Hareesh decided to withdraw his novel following alleged threats from right-wing groups. 'Meesha' found itself embroiled in a controversy after three parts of the novel were published in a weekly.
Certain right-wing activists had alleged that the novel portrays women visiting temples in a poor light. However, after the issue kicked up a row, many writers and politicians had come forward supporting the author.
Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government was with writers when it came to freedom of expression and it would not allow any attack on them.
"Do not stop writing. The difficulties should be overcome by the strength of your literary creations," he said.
Eminent writers, including M Mukundan, K Satchidanandan, Anita Nair, Unni R and K R Meera had expressed anguish over the development and said it was a threat to freedom of expression.
Political leaders had also expressed solidarity with the writer, with veteran CPM leader V S Achuthanandan asking Hareesh to reconsider his decision to pull out the novel.
Minister G Sudhakaran and opposition leader in the assembly Ramesh Chennithala were also among those who had extended their support to the writer.
