NEW DELHI: Over 100 writers, translators, and publishers have accused the JCB Prize for Literature of hypocrisy, highlighting its association with JCB, a UK-based manufacturer of bulldozers allegedly used in controversial demolitions in India and Palestine. The writers, in an open letter, criticized the funding of the literary prize by a company linked to the destruction of homes and livelihoods, terming it incompatible with the values of literature.
The letter, released ahead of the JCB Prize winner announcement on November 23, 2024, called attention to the BJP-led government’s alleged use of JCB bulldozers in “bulldozer justice” campaigns targeting Muslim communities in India. These campaigns, reportedly involving the demolition of homes, shops, and places of worship, have drawn significant criticism from human rights organizations globally.
While the prize celebrates literary excellence and promotes Indian writing, its association with JCB raises questions about the ethics of corporate sponsorships in cultural platforms. This year’s shortlist features a mix of debut novels and translations from regional Indian languages, showcasing India’s literary diversity.
Web Team, C6N
