# Salman Rushdie warnings on rising nationalism

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/salman-rushdie-warnings-on-rising-nationalism
> Updated: 2026-09-17T10:57:22.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Author Salman Rushdie has issued warnings regarding the rise of nationalism and extremism in various global contexts.

In an interview with PBS, Rushdie criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting he was “partly responsible” for some of the 2002 Gujarat violence and noting he has “a very brutal side.” Rushdie expressed concern over the erosion of free speech in India and the global expansion of Hindu nationalism through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Expanding his critique to the West, Rushdie warned at the Pordenonelegge festival about the growth of ultra-nationalism and far-right extremism in Europe and the United States. He specifically highlighted a troubling trend of extremism among youth in countries such as Germany, France, and Spain, arguing that these movements threaten fundamental democratic rights.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: Salman Rushdie warns of rising far-right extremism

Salman Rushdie warns of the rising threat posed by far-right extremism and ultra-nationalism across Europe and the United States, calling for the protection of fundamental democratic rights.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/salman-rushdie-warns-of-rising-far-right-extremism

### 2026-09-09: Salman Rushdie criticizes Narendra Modi and warns of rising Hindu nationalism

Salman Rushdie criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a recent interview, citing his role in the 2002 Gujarat violence and warning of rising Hindu nationalism and the erosion of free speech in India.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/salman-rushdie-criticizes-narendra-modi-and-warns-of-rising-hindu-nationalism

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Cite as: Salman Rushdie warnings on rising nationalism. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/salman-rushdie-warnings-on-rising-nationalism