An FIR has been filed against two college students and several others in Pune for allegedly celebrating a prominent Maoist leader during a cultural event at a government-hosted facility. The FIR was lodged by Sub-Inspector Shabbir Shaikh at the Vishrantwadi police station, although no arrests have been executed so far. The investigation is currently underway as authorities examine the implications of the performance.

The students, pursuing their BBA studies in Gadchiroli district, are among the accused along with other participants associated with the event. They have been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for promoting enmity, making statements detrimental to national integration, and causing public disorder. The performance in question occurred during a cultural gathering in early April.

Event Context and Performance Details

This incident is linked to a cultural programme that took place at the Bharatratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Government Hostel for Boys, from April 6 to April 14, coinciding with the celebrations of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s 135th birth anniversary. The programme’s theme was focused on “Save Trees,” yet it became contentious after a video of the performance circulated on social media platforms, raising concerns among various right-wing groups.

Upon verification of the video evidence, the police later identified and booked two students aged 22 and 23, both of whom reside at the hostel and attend a Pune college for a BBA (CA) course. Officials also indicated that the song selection may have been unintentional.

Background on Madvi Hidma and Student Responses

Madvi Hidma is a significant figure within the now-banned CPI (Maoist) and its guerrilla corps. He has been implicated in orchestrating numerous attacks against security forces over the last two decades and was under a bounty of Rs 1 crore. Hidma was slain in an encounter with security personnel in Andhra Pradesh in November 2025. His notoriety raises concerns regarding any portrayal that may seem to celebrate his actions.

During their initial questioning, the accused students claimed they were unaware of Hidma’s background. They mentioned that they chose the song for its popularity in the Vidarbha region and its appealing rhythmic quality. Furthermore, they stated their costumes were inspired by renowned tribal freedom fighters, such as Birsa Munda and Baburao Shedmake, implying no malicious intent behind their performance.

Officials from the Social Welfare Department indicated that at first glance, the actions of the students did not appear to be deliberate or harmful. However, police have asserted that performing to a song associated with a Maoist commander could have repercussions on national integration and sovereignty. The investigation continues as authorities assess the broader implications of the incident.

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