In a controversial turn of events, a professor and five students from Pune University were arrested on Saturday for allegedly hurting religious sentiments by staging a play based on the epic ‘Ramayan’. The play, which reportedly contained objectionable dialogues and scenes, triggered a clash between members of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and students of Pune Lalit Kala Kendra.
The incident unfolded during the performance of the play on Friday evening, leading to a scuffle between ABVP functionaries and students of Pune Lalit Kala Kendra. ABVP member Harshvardhan Harpude filed a complaint, prompting the police to register a case under section 295 (A) and other relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code.
According to the FIR, the play portrayed a male actor dressed as Sita engaging in smoking and using offensive language, raising objections from ABVP members who sought to intervene and halt the performance. The situation escalated when actors reportedly heckled and assaulted the ABVP members.
In response to the complaint, police inspector Ankush Chintaman confirmed the registration of a case and detailed the charges against the accused. The head of the Lalit Kala Kendra department, Dr. Pravin Bhole, along with students Bhavesh Patil, Jay Pednekar, Prathamesh Sawant, Rishikesh Dalvi, and Yash Chikhle, were arrested in connection with the incident.
The controversial play has ignited debates over artistic freedom, religious sentiments, and the boundaries of expression. The clash between the ABVP and the performers highlights the delicate balance between artistic expression and cultural sensitivities, prompting discussions on the role of censorship and responsible portrayal of religious figures in public performances.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the incident at Pune University serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in navigating the intersection of art, culture, and religious sentiments in contemporary society.
Sources By Agencies