Activist Vidyanand Bapat assaulted in Pune during media interview

Social activist Vidyanand Bapat was assaulted in the Tilak Road area of Pune on Thursday, September 3, while providing a media statement. The attack occurred as Bapat was discussing his opposition to high-decibel DJ systems and noise pollution during the upcoming Ganeshotsav celebrations.

Video footage of the incident shows a man approaching and slapping Bapat during a media interaction. Bystanders intervened to stop the attacker, and Pune Police subsequently took the assailant into custody. Bapat was escorted by police in a van for his safety while investigations continue.

Bapat has recently gained prominence for advocating for a ban on amplified DJ music and loudspeakers during festivals, arguing that excessive noise impacts public health and causes civic inconvenience. His stance has sparked significant debate, including a recent heated confrontation at a Pune Municipal Corporation preparatory meeting regarding festival regulations.