The release of Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming film ‘Emergency’ has been delayed after a series of legal challenges and objections raised by Sikh groups. The film, directed by Ranaut who also portrays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was initially set to release on September 6th. However, the Bombay High Court on Wednesday refused to intervene in the matter after the Madhya Pradesh High Court directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to consider objections raised against the film before granting a certificate.
Ranaut, known for her outspoken nature and controversial statements, took to Twitter to express her disappointment, alleging that the court had “blasted” the censor board for withholding the certificate. The film’s producer, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, had approached the Bombay High Court seeking a direction for the CBFC to issue a certificate for the biographical drama. The plea argued that the censor board was prepared to issue the certificate but was withholding it due to concerns about potential law and order unrest following the film’s release.
The Bombay High Court acknowledged that the censor board had prepared the certificate but ultimately refused to grant any relief, stating that it would be contradicting the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s order if it intervened. The Madhya Pradesh High Court had previously heard petitions filed by Sikh groups who claimed that the film contains scenes that may offend their religious sentiments and potentially cause unrest.
The controversy surrounding ‘Emergency’ stems from the film’s depiction of Indira Gandhi’s controversial period as Prime Minister, particularly her declaration of the Emergency in 1975. Sikh groups have raised concerns about the film’s portrayal of the community and its historical accuracy, leading to the ongoing legal battle. The CBFC is now required to reconsider the film and issue a certificate by September 18th, pushing back the film’s release by two weeks. The film’s delayed release is a testament to the ongoing debate surrounding historical accuracy and the portrayal of sensitive topics in film, adding further intrigue to the already controversial project.
