Rs 1.2 Lakh Fine Each On IIT Bombay Students Over "Ramayana" Play
NDTV
A section of students had formally complained against the play, alleging that it was loosely based on the revered Hindu epic Ramayana and had derogatory references to Hindu beliefs and deities.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has fined eight students for staging a controversial play titled 'Raahovan,' believed to be a parody of Ramayana, during the institute's Performing Arts Festival (PAF) on March 31.
A section of students had formally complained against the play, alleging that it was loosely based on the revered Hindu epic Ramayana and had derogatory references to Hindu beliefs and deities. Some students alleged that the play lampooned the lead characters and mocked cultural values in the guise of "promoting feminism". The complaints led to a disciplinary committee meeting on May 8, resulting in the penalties announced on June 4.
The institute imposed fines of Rs 1.2 lakh each on four students - the amount is almost the same as a semester's tuition fee. Four other students were fined Rs 40,000 each. Graduating students faced additional sanctions, including a ban from the institute's gymkhana awards given to students. Junior students were debarred from hostel facilities.
