by MUKUL DUBE
A couple of months ago I wrote to Himal Southasian about an article of mine which they had re-published without naming “Mainstream“, where it had appeared first. They had given it a different title, they had sought no one’s permission, and they had not so much as informed the writer.
Ms. L. Murthy, consulting editor, responded in hostile and thoroughly illogical manner. My sharp answer to her brought the promise of a cheque from Mr. V. Gadgil, associate editor; although as a proper Indian he offered an explanation of sorts but no apology.
Several weeks have passed and I have received nothing. The associate editor’s promise has disappeared like flatulence, leaving behind an odour of course. The fact that the Himalayan crooks have not stuffed my mouth with money compels me to, well, mouth off.
They got a piece of writing for nothing, as in free-for-all. The law in India, and probably that in Nepal too, frowns upon both theft and violation of copyright. Only puffed up thieves can get away scot free.
Mukul Dube can be reached at uthappam@gmail.com