A shocking incident of public violence unfolded in Pune in the early hours of Thursday, leaving an 18-year-old youth with severe head injuries after he was assaulted for laughing loudly during a movie screening. The victim, identified as Arjun Rajendrakumar Diwakar, who works at a salon, had to receive 13 stitches following the brutal attack with a blunt object.
What Happened Outside the Multiplex?
The incident occurred around 1:35 am outside a multiplex in the Kharadi area. According to police, Diwakar and his friend were watching the blockbuster film 'Dhurandar'. The trio of assailants, seated adjacent to them, allegedly took offence to the duo's loud laughter during the show.
A heated verbal exchange ensued inside the theatre between the two groups. The situation escalated dramatically once everyone stepped out of the multiplex premises. The three men then launched a violent attack on Diwakar, striking him on the head with a blunt object. They also beat up his friend before fleeing the scene on a scooter.
Police Investigation and Search for Culprits
Senior Inspector Sanjay Chavan of Kharadi police station confirmed the grievous nature of the injury. "The victim sustained a deep injury and doctors administered 13 stitches on his head," Chavan told media. Diwakar was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The police have registered a case against the unidentified trio under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons and for intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace. Investigators are scouring CCTV footage from the area, which is equipped with cameras, to trace the suspects.
"We are yet to trace and arrest the three assailants," stated Inspector Chavan. "We are trying to figure out the registration number of the scooter on which the trio fled. It will help identify the suspects."
A Disturbing Trend of Public Violence
This assault highlights a worrying trend of extreme reactions to minor irritations in public spaces. An argument over cinema hall etiquette spiraled into a life-threatening physical assault, leaving a young man seriously injured. The police are urging witnesses to come forward with any information that could lead to the arrest of the attackers.
The case continues to be under active investigation as authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure such brazen acts of violence are not repeated in public entertainment venues.
