An argument over how Ganeshotsav should be celebrated in Pune turned physical on Thursday after ‘activist’ Vidyanand Bapat was assaulted while speaking to reporters about his campaign against DJ systems and loudspeakers during Ganpati processions.
A video of the incident shows a man approaching Bapat as he was interacting with the media and allegedly slapping him. The man has been identified as Santosh Chavan. Following the incident, police reached the spot and escorted Bapat away in a police vehicle, citing concerns for his safety.
The incident has sparked outrage because Bapat was targeted over his opposition to music during religious processions.
Who is Vidyanand Bapat and what is his campaign about?
Bapat has been campaigning against the use of DJ systems and loudspeakers during religious festivals. He has argued against the use of DJs and loudspeakers during Ganesh processions, attracting the wrath of devotees who celebrate the Ganesh festival with great pomp and grandeur.
His campaign has sought to push for celebrations that respect noise limits and allow residents to participate in or go about their daily lives without being subjected to loudspeakers and DJs.
The issue is particularly relevant in Maharashtra, where Ganeshotsav draws massive public participation,n and processions often feature elaborate music systems, DJs and loudspeakers.
For Bapat, however, the celebration of the festival does not justify the use of sound.
Activist slapped while speaking to media
The confrontation escalated on Thursday when Bapat was speaking to reporters.
A video purportedly showing the incident captures a man walking towards the activist before allegedly slapping him. The alleged attacker was identified as Santosh Chavan.
The police subsequently intervened and moved Bapat away from the location in a police van.
Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar assured that strict action would be taken against the person accused of assaulting Bapat.
The police action came amid concerns for the activist’s safety following the confrontation.
Fadnavis condemns assault
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the assault and made it clear that disagreement with someone’s views cannot justify attacking them.
“Everyone has the right to express their opinion. Attacking someone for expressing their views is wrong,” Fadnavis said.
He also noted that the accused had been arrested and argued that such disputes were inappropriate.
At the same time, Fadnavis backed the idea of celebrating Ganeshotsav traditionally.
“Our Ganeshotsav should be celebrated traditionally. It may not be possible to achieve this 100% in the beginning, but it can be achieved,” he said.
His remarks underline the distinction between celebrating a religious festival and the manner in which it is celebrated.
