Gen Naravane Advocates Civil Debate at Khushwant Singh Literary Festival

Former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane has called on young writers to express their opinions fearlessly while respecting individuals with opposing viewpoints, emphasising that disagreement should encourage meaningful debate rather than personal hostility. Addressing the opening of the 15th Khushwant Singh Literary Festival 2026 in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh, he highlighted the importance of discipline, responsibility and integrity in writing, drawing parallels between the military profession and the power of the written word.

“Disagree on issues, but don’t disrespect the person,” Naravane advised aspiring authors, echoing the festival’s theme, “The Art of Disagreement: Conversations Across Divides.” He urged writers to address serious subjects without malice, adding, “Write fearlessly, but write responsibly. The pen, like the sword, must be wielded with honour.” He also stressed daily writing as a discipline, comparing it to a soldier maintaining a diary. Naravane launched ‘Forever Young KSLF’, an initiative encouraging aspiring writers.

His message echoes a famous saying often attributed to French philosopher Voltaire: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” The wording was written by English author Evelyn Beatrice Hall in her 1906 book The Friends of Voltaire to summarise his attitude towards freedom of expression. The principle reinforces the distinction between challenging someone's opinions and denying their right to express them.

Festival director Rahul Singh, son of celebrated author Khushwant Singh, recalled his father’s commitment to writing, humour and fearless commentary. He said the late author wrote daily for nearly seven decades and demonstrated how criticism could coexist with respect.

The three-day festival, running from October 23 to 25 at the historic Kasauli Club, brings together more than 80 speakers from literature, journalism, politics, business, technology and the arts. Discussions cover political polarisation, misinformation, gender, identity, democracy, ecology and generational divides.

Opening-day sessions featured lawyer Mihira Sood discussing gender equality, journalist-author Sanjoy Hazarika examining Mizoram’s transition from insurgency to democracy, and chef-author Rahul Akerkar reflecting on his culinary journey. Science writer Upasana Sarraju explored curiosity through Unruly, while discussions also addressed spirituality, trauma and emotional well-being.

Naravane’s remarks resonate with India’s constitutional guarantee of freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a), subject to reasonable restrictions. His central message remains that robust criticism need not become personal abuse, and respectful disagreement is essential to meaningful democratic dialogue.