There is news that Arun Sadhu, noted author and thinker and out going Chairman (Sammelanadhyaksha) of Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, arguably the apex event in the field of Marathi literature has boycotted the Sahitya Sammelan at Sangali. This was done on account of shrinkage in time allotted to both of the Sammelanadhyaksha, the outgoing and the newly elected, for their speeches on account of President of India H.E. Pratibha Patil.

Umpteen times this issue was discussed by many entities on many platforms. This is not the first case as such. Till date, the issue was with local corporators and ministers or simply put the other political animals. The 'trouble' these entities cause by appearing in the events that are totally non-political in nature are beyond words. However this time the things are different. This time, the President is involved. As she is first Marathi President of India, it appears obvious if she likes to attend the event, but her presence on the dais is something that is disturbing all the conventions and protocols of this mega event.

We don't have any objection if the honorable President intends to attend the event, but surely not at the cost of 'disturbing' the smooth flow of the event. It is perfectly all right, if such guests sit as a part of audience and let the events flow as it should. Having the first citizen of India at such an important event is a blessing for the organizers. We do expect that the honourable President will put a pretext that will send strong signals for the political shenanigans. But for time being the things are due for 'boycott'.