Arrested Cartoonist Aseem Tribedi in Bigg Boss 6

Controversial Activist and cartoonist Aseem Tribedi

The Cartoonists Rights Network International urged the authorities in the world’s largest democracy to stand up for free speech and put an end to all the attempts to silence Aseem’s political speech. Dr. Robert Russell commented, "Aseem’s enemies either don’t know how to interpret symbols in editorial cartoons or are knowingly twisting the law to silence dissent in order to shield corrupt officials."

The cartoons in the controversy parody India’s national symbols, and are drawn to make a point on corruption in the government. One cartoon depicts the Indian Parliament building as a toilet. At the right end of the cartoon, a little above the halfway line, there is a roller with toilet paper. To the left, there is a pink flush, attached to a commode below with three flies hovering over it. The commode looks like the Indian Parliament. ‘National Toilet,’ says the cartoon’s title, with a abusive line.

Offending cartoon by Aseem-  the motto “Satyameva Jayate” (truth alone shall triumph) as bloodthirsty wolves underscored with the motto “Bhrashtamev Jayate” (long live corruption). And yet another features the “Mother India,” wearing a tri-color sari, about to be raped by a character labelled “Corruption." The title of the cartoon is "Gang Rape of Mother India." Another cartoon shows politics and corruption in a sexual position to expose their immoral relationship. The line beneath the cartoon reads, "The immoral relationships are always harmful for a house hold."

Facing sedition charges under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, along with other offences under the Information Technology Act, Trivedi was arrested in Mumbai late on Saturday and sent to seven days police custody by a magistrate Sunday.After questioning him for a day, police decided not to grill the cartoonist any further. He was produced again before a court which sent him to judicial custody till Sep 24.

"What should one expect from Aseem Trivedi on the reality show ‘Bigg Boss 6’? 'Not entertainment for sure,' says the controversial activist and cartoonist, who hopes to use the platform to spread his message on anti-corruption. "I am not an entertainer. I am not going to the show for providing any entertainment, " "I believe viewers want to watch things other than entertainment on TV. Aamir Khan`s show `Satyamev Jayate` was a serious show, it wasn`t to entertain. But people watched it. A huge chunk of people want to watch serious issues too,"    he added.