Pune Cultural Festival Marred by Vandalism at International Food Stall

An international cultural festival at a Pune university was disrupted when activists vandalised a Bangladesh-themed food stall and burned the flag, prompting police investigation.

Pune | 12 February, 2026- A cultural festival at a prominent Pune university on February 11, 2026, was marred when activists vandalised a Bangladesh-themed food stall and set the national flag on fire. The festival, which aimed to showcase global cultures, food, and traditions, attracted Indian and international students. The incident, which occurred after official hours, disrupted what was intended as a peaceful celebration of cultural diversity.

The Bangladesh-themed stall was part of an international section of the festival, offering students and visitors the chance to experience cuisines, arts, and customs from various countries. According to eyewitness accounts, a group of individuals entered the campus without prior permission, objected to the display of the Bangladesh flag, and then proceeded to damage the stall infrastructure and burn the flag. The confrontation escalated quickly, causing panic among students and organisers present at the event.

Police were alerted immediately, and an investigation has been launched to identify the perpetrators and assess the extent of the damage. CCTV footage and eyewitness statements are being reviewed, while campus authorities have confirmed that a formal complaint has been filed. University officials stressed that the event is meant to foster unity and cultural exchange and condemned the act of vandalism, emphasizing that such disruptions undermine the inclusive values of the campus community.

Several students expressed shock and disappointment at the incident. Many noted that cultural festivals provide a platform for international students to share their heritage and learn from one another. The disruption has also sparked debate on social media about campus security, respect for cultural symbols, and the balance between activism and lawful expression on educational premises.

Authorities highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order while protecting multicultural initiatives. The university plans to review campus entry protocols and strengthen security measures for future events. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that cultural celebrations remain safe spaces for all participants.

This incident underscores the challenges of maintaining inclusivity in campus events and highlights the need for proactive measures to prevent political or ideological conflicts from affecting cultural programs. The police investigation will determine the next steps, while university authorities continue to engage with students to promote awareness, safety, and respect for cultural diversity.

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