In a recent incident, a Pune University professor and five students found themselves in legal trouble for their involvement in a play based on ‘Ramleela.’ The police arrested them on Saturday, citing objectionable dialogues and scenes that allegedly offended religious sentiments.
The controversy unfolded when members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), clashed with students from Pune University’s Lalit Kala Kendra. The altercation arose from a play presented on Friday evening by Lalit Kala Kendra, the official Center for Performing Arts at the university.
Dr Pravin Bhole, the head of the department of Lalit Kala Kendra, along with students Bhavesh Patil, Jay Pednekar, Prathamesh Sawant, Rishikesh Dalvi, and Yash Chikhle, were arrested and later produced in court. The charges were filed under section 295(A) of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to the deliberate and malicious intention of outraging the religious feelings of any class, along with other relevant provisions.
The FIR detailed that the play showcased behind-the-scenes conversations of actors involved in portraying various roles in ‘Ramleela.’ A male actor, depicting the character of Sita, was reportedly shown engaging in activities such as smoking a cigarette and using offensive language. The ABVP members raised objections during the performance, leading to the play being halted.
The confrontation escalated as artists allegedly heckled and assaulted the ABVP members. A complaint filed by ABVP functionary Harshvardhan Harpude prompted the police to register a case against the professor and students involved in the play.
In response to the incident, the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) administration issued a statement expressing that it does not support the mockery of icons and extends apologies if sentiments were hurt. The university has formed a ‘fact-finding committee,’ headed by a retired district judge, to inquire into the incident. Action will be taken based on the committee’s report.
The SPPU clarified that the play was part of a classroom exercise held at the open theatre of the center. Despite this explanation, the controversy has ignited debates surrounding artistic freedom, religious sentiments, and the role of educational institutions in fostering creative expression.
In a separate development, members associated with the Bhartiya Janta Yuva Morcha (BJYM), the youth wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), reportedly splattered ink and vandalized a board at the Lalit Kala Kendra. This adds another layer of tension to the already heated situation, raising questions about the boundaries of political involvement in academic affairs. The incident underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects both freedom of expression and religious sensitivities within educational institutions.