CBFC to Bombay HC: Emergency Can be Released After Suggested Cuts

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SEPTEMBER 26,2024

The Bombay High Court recently heard a plea regarding Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film Emergency, which has sparked controversy ahead of its release. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) informed the court that the film could be cleared for release after certain cuts were made. This development comes after Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, a co-producer of the film, challenged the delay in certification, alleging political interference.

The Ongoing Legal Battle Between CBFC and the Emergency

The film Emergency, directed by Kangana Ranaut, delves into a controversial period in Indian history. Ranaut, who also co-produced the film and is a sitting BJP MP, portrays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The CBFC's revising committee has recommended that some scenes be altered before the movie can be approved for public screening.

The CBFC disclosed this information to the Bombay High Court during a plea hearing. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, the co-producer, filed the petition after concerns arose regarding the film's depiction of the Sikh community. The production house accused the CBFC of 'illegally' and 'arbitrarily' withholding the film's certification. According to Zee, this delay seemed to have a "political angle," as Haryana elections were approaching.

Also Read: Meet Kulwinder Kaur, The CISF Woman Constable Who Slapped Kangana Ranaut

During the hearing, the petitioner's lawyer argued that the delay in certification might be politically motivated. He pointed out, 'They (ruling party BJP) are willing to displease the sitting MP (Ranaut, who is a co-producer and represents the Mandi constituency in Lok Sabha) to appease a particular section of the societyhellip Here is a film which is anti-Sikh as per some groups. Then who will be responsible for releasing an anti-Sikh movie? It will be the CBFC, which is the executive. So, some members of the community will say we will not vote for the ruling party in the coming Haryana elections.'

Zee's plea argued that the delay in certification was restricting the filmmakers' freedom of expression. The High Court echoed this sentiment, urging the CBFC to make a decision without further delays.

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut On Projecting Indira Gandhi's Image: "Emergency Will Be A Slap.."

Court's Decision and the Future of Emergency

Earlier on September 19, a bench of Justices B.P. Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla directed the CBFC to make a final decision by September 25 regarding the film's release. The court asked the board "not to sit on the fence" and resolve the matter promptly.

As of now, the film's future hinges on the cuts suggested by the CBFC. With Kangana Ranaut's portrayal of Indira Gandhi and its historical context, Emergency is already drawing attention even before its release. Whether the changes satisfy both the CBFC and the concerned community remains to be seen.