Humour and satire are tools of creative expression. If the Prime Minister seriously thinks that they are the "best healers”, then he should help create an atmosphere where artists can express freely. When his supporters, some of whom proudly call themselves ‘bhakts’ are so intolerant, how can one write satire? A ‘bhakt’ by definition is blinded by his devotion to his God. If a leader has blind followers, then that’s a dangerous thing for a democracy.

A few months ago, the plug was pulled on a stand-up comedian’s satire show because he poked fun at a minister. The official reason given was something else, but the comedian was pulled up for his act.

Dear PM, how do you expect people to create humour or satire in such an atmosphere? Just like digital wallets cannot work unless you create an ecosystem for it, humour cannot flourish unless society is free, tolerant and open-minded.

Appointing the likes of Pahlaj Nihalani certainly won’t help create such an atmosphere. If we really want people to laugh and enjoy themselves, we need liberal leaders at the helm of influential institutions.