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**Summary:**

Ambedkarite rapper Vedan, a rising star in Kerala’s hip-hop scene known for his socially conscious lyrics critical of casteism and the central government, is facing controversy after a BJP leader filed a complaint seeking an NIA investigation against him. The complaint cites Vedan’s lyrics lampooning Prime Minister Modi and accuses him of promoting caste hatred at the behest of divisive forces. This follows previous ire from Sangh Parivar organizations and support from the LDF government and opposition leaders who praise Vedan’s social commentary. Meanwhile, a RSS mouthpiece editor was indicted for denigrating Vedan. The CPI(M) views the NIA complaint as an example of BJP’s intolerance towards dissent.

**News Article:**

**BJP Demands NIA Probe of Kerala Rapper Vedan Over “Divisive” Lyrics**

**Thiruvananthapuram, May 23, 2025** – Ambedkarite rapper Vedan, whose rise to prominence in Kerala’s hip-hop scene has been fueled by his pointed social commentary, is now at the center of a political storm. A BJP leader in Palakkad has filed a complaint with the Union Minister of Home Affairs, Amit Shah, requesting the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to investigate the artist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention Act).

V.S. Minimol, a BJP counselor in the Palakkad Municipality, alleges that Vedan’s lyrics, particularly those satirizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “fake patriot,” are “divisive” and promote caste hatred. Vedan’s song “Voice of the Voiceless,” released in 2019, is specifically cited as evidence of his criticism of the central government.

Vedan’s music has earned him both widespread acclaim and fierce opposition. He is known for rapping about caste discrimination in Kerala, resonating with youth and earning praise from both the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and opposition leaders. The LDF government even featured Vedan at its anniversary celebrations.

However, the Sangh Parivar organizations have been critical of the artist. The BJP-controlled Palakkad municipality has even demanded compensation for alleged property damage at a Vedan-attended event. Hindu Aikya Vedi leader P. Sasikala has labeled Vedan’s music a “blot” on the culture of scheduled castes and tribes.

The controversy surrounding Vedan extends to the media. The editor of the RSS mouthpiece, Kesari, was recently indicted for allegedly promoting enmity by “denigrating” Vedan as a “caste terrorist.”

The CPI(M) has condemned the NIA complaint as a sign of the BJP’s intolerance toward dissent. A A Rahim, DYFI National President and CPI(M) State Committee member, stated, “Vedan’s massive acceptance in Kerala society…for his critique of society and power has given the regressive BJP and Sangh Parivar sleepless nights. The BJP’s threat that it would jail an artist for criticising Modi through his art would not pass muster among the masses.”

The unfolding situation has sparked intense debate about artistic freedom, the role of social commentary, and the limits of political criticism in India. The NIA has yet to comment on whether it will pursue the investigation.

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