Pune Students Arrested For 'Hurtful' Ram Leela Parody: What Happened

In a recent incident at Pune's Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), an ABVP leader, Harshwardhan Harpude, triggered legal action by filing an FIR at Chaturshringi police station. The complaint revolves around a student play staged at SPPU's Lalit Kala Kendra, where characters from the Ramayana were allegedly portrayed in a manner considered objectionable.

Six Individuals, Including Head of Performing Arts Department, Arrested on Multiple Charges

The aftermath of the controversial play has led to the booking of six individuals, with Dr Pravin Dattatraya Bhole, head of the Lalit Kala Kendra, at the centre of the controversy. Sections of the Indian Penal Code, including insulting religious beliefs and unlawful assembly, along with provisions of the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act, form the basis of the charges against the accused.

The university has formed a fact-finding committee headed by a retired district judge to investigate the matter. “Parody of any person, legend or historical figure is completely wrong and prohibited,” the university stated in its press release.

ABVP Alleges Insult to Religious Beliefs and Obscene Acts in Student Play

ABVP leader Harpude, in the FIR, accused the play, titled 'Jab We Met,' of containing objectionable and abusive content. Allegations included the use of inappropriate language by the actors and the depiction of Sita smoking on stage, which was deemed offensive. The FIR further stated that objections raised by Harpude and his friends resulted in physical altercations with the actors and students.

The charges filed against the accused encompass a range of legal violations, from insulting religious beliefs to engaging in obscene acts and songs. The police detained some of the accused for investigation, shedding light on the alleged unruly behaviour during the play and the subsequent confrontation with ABVP members.

According to the FIR, the confrontation escalated to physical violence, with ABVP members claiming they were manhandled and assaulted by the actors and students of Lalit Kala Kendra. The incident raises questions about the boundaries of artistic expression and the potential consequences when artistic interpretations clash with religious sentiments.

Viral Videos Add Fuel to the Controversy

In the age of social media, videos purportedly capturing scenes from the contentious play have gone viral, amplifying the controversy. The widespread dissemination of these videos further intensifies the debate on artistic freedom, religious sensitivity, and the responsibility of educational institutions to facilitate a respectful discourse.

Watch the video here.

VIDEO - pic.twitter.com/i6t4Awqx8N

— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) February 3, 2024

The incident at Pune University reflects a clash between artistic expression and religious sentiments, sparking legal actions and igniting discussions on the delicate balance between creativity and cultural respect. The arrests and charges against those involved in the play underscore the complexities surrounding freedom of expression in a diverse and culturally sensitive society.