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JK Rowling, Stephen King and others condemn ‘HORRIFYING’ attack on Salman Rushdie

The Booker Prize winner, who is still unable to speak, was rushed to the hospital and was put on a ventilator after the incident

CHAUTAUQUA, NEW YORK: Salman Rushdie, whose writings have been dubbed blasphemous by many Muslims around the world, was stabbed up to 15 times at an event where he was about to deliver a speech about free artistic expression. The alleged attacker has been identified as 24-year-old Hadi Matar who was spotted wearing a black outfit with a black mask.
 
Several authors and public figures like JK Rowling, Stephen King, Arundhati Roy, and others took to social media platforms to condemn the horrific incident that occurred on Friday, August 12. The Booker Prize winner, who is still unable to speak, was rushed to the hospital and was put on a ventilator. The 75-year-old author’s agent Andrew Wylie spilled the beans on the situation revealing the author was likely to lose an eye.
 
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J K Rowling

Acclaimed author JK Rowling took to Twitter to express her valuable opinion on the unfortunate incident. “Horrifying news”, said Rowling further stating, “Feeling very sick right now. Let him be ok.”  

Stephen King

Stephen King, who is famous for his horror, suspense, crime, science-fiction, and fantasy novels, took to Twitter after the horrific incident and said, “I hope Salman Rushdie is okay.” 

Wajahat Ali

Wajahat Ali, the author of ‘Go Back to Where You Came From’, tweeted, “I was there 2 weeks ago giving a talk. It’s a lovely place with a fantastic, curious and welcoming community.” He added, “This is shocking. I hope Salman Rushdie isn’t injured and can recover and heal quickly. How disgusting.”
 
He also shared, “Unhinged men wanting to police the world through violence. Salman Rushdie stabbed today. FBI attacked yesterday,” concluding, “I fear these examples of violence will only keep escalating with polarization, disinformation and extremism going mainstream.”  

Ian McEwan

Booker-prize-winning author, Ian McEwan shared his thoughts on the incident with The Guardian. He slammed the “appalling attack”, saying it “represents an assault on freedom of thought and speech”. “Salman has been an inspirational defender of persecuted writers and journalists across the world”, said Ian adding, “He is a fiery and generous spirit, a man of immense talent and courage and he will not be deterred.”

Neil Gaiman

British author Neil Gaiman, who is known for his short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, too took Twitter to speak his mind on the incident. “I’m shocked and distressed to see my friend @SalmanRushdie has been attacked before a talk”, said Gaiman adding, “He’s a good man and a brilliant one and I hope he’s okay.”   

Kathy Hochul, New York Governor

The New York governor, Kathy Hochul tweeted, “Thank you to the swift response of @nyspolice & first responders following today’s attack of author Salman Rushdie” adding, “Our thoughts are with Salman & his loved ones following this horrific event. I have directed State Police to further assist however needed in the investigation.”  

Arundhati Roy

Speaking to The Guardian, Indian author and political and environmental activist Arundhati Roy stated, “I am shocked and saddened beyond measure. Nothing can justify this attack.”

Vir Sanghvi

Author and columnist Vir Sanghvi shared a picture of Salman Rushdie and stated, “I pray for the good health of Salman Rushdie, proud son of the subcontinent, India’s midnight’s child & one of the world’s great writers.” He added, “And, I stand in solidarity with him for his right to free expression. What has happened today reminds us of the risks brave writers take.” 

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