Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ Film Certification Delayed: Court Hears Sikh Community’s Concerns

In a significant legal development, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has informed the Madhya Pradesh High Court that the certification process for the film “Emergency,” starring Kangana Ranaut, is still under consideration. The film, originally scheduled for release on September 6, 2024, has not yet been certified, as confirmed by the Deputy Solicitor General representing the Union of India before a bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Vinay Saraf.

High Court Directs CBFC to Consider Representations

• The Court directed the CBFC to consider the representations made regarding the film’s trailer, specifically advising the Board to adhere to the Cinematograph Act and the rules established under it before issuing a certificate for the movie.
• The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the film’s release was disposed of by the Court, which refrained from passing any further orders. The Court emphasized that the CBFC is the competent authority to grant film certifications and noted that, since no certificate had been issued, it was premature to judge the content of the film.

PIL Filed by Sikh Community Representatives

• The PIL was brought before the Court by Jabalpur Sikh Sangat and Guru Singh Sabha Indore, who alleged that the film contains scenes violating the fundamental rights of the Sikh community.
• On Monday, the Division Bench issued notices to the Central Government and the CBFC after hearing the petitioners, represented by Advocate Narinder Pal Singh Ruprah, who argued that the film’s depiction of certain historical events could mislead and defame the Sikh community.

Concerns Raised Over Film’s Depiction of Historical Events

• The film “Emergency,” set during the 1975 Emergency under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has been criticized by the petitioners for its portrayal of specific historical events.
• The petitioners specifically objected to the use of the term ‘Khalistan,’ arguing that it could have adverse effects on the Sikh community, particularly by leading to discrimination and labeling of young Sikh children who wear turbans as ‘Khalistanis.’

Petitioners Demand Apology from Kangana Ranaut

• The petitioners have demanded an unconditional apology from Kangana Ranaut, the film’s actor and producer, alleging that the film’s content not only misrepresents historical facts but also defames the Sikh community.
• They contended that the film’s portrayal is historically inaccurate and could harm the community’s image, thus violating their fundamental rights.

Source: LiveLaw