Congmen object to Gandhi sketch, vandalise exhibition

What agitated the Congress leaders was a drawing showing Mahatma Gandhi as a modern day tourist in Paris. Shown wearing a shirt and trousers, the Father of the Nation has a camera hanging from his neck. He is shown outside a shop called Gandhi Fried Chicken. The Congress leaders allege it was defamatory and the artist should tender a public apology.

A group of around 100 workers led by former legislator P.C. Sharma and former Bhopal Mayor Vibha Patel stormed the hall, vandalised it and burnt down two paintings. A police team, which rushed to Alliance Francaise where the exhibition was held, took into possession the set of 15 more drawings. Sharma said a police complaint has also been lodged against the artist for degrading the Father of the Nation.

Interestingly, the Congress leader also expressed their reservations about some drawings showing Hindu gods and goddesses. ‘‘He (artist) has even hurt the sentiments of the Hindu community.’’

The Bajrang Dal, meanwhile, lauded the Congress workers for their act. ‘‘Though it was us who had raised concern over the exhibition, we support those who have burnt the drawings. At least, the Congress has had the guts to do something against people who hurt the sentiments of Hindus,’’ said Bajrang Dal leader Devender Rawat. Ghosh was not available for comments.