Overview

• Colaba police registered an FIR against artist T Venkanna and Gallery Maskara director Abhay Maskara after a visit by a complainant on September 26.
• Officers cited sections 294, 295 and 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in connection with alleged obscenity and outraging religious feelings.
• The complaint references a work titled 'Union for Peace' depicting Goddess Mahakali and Lord Shiva, along with other nude images displayed openly.
• The complainant said there was no signage restricting entry to those under 18 and alleged gallery staff locked themselves inside when questioned.
• The artist’s statement describes the image as symbolic commentary on sexual violence rather than a religious allegory, and police say the investigation is ongoing.