States High court

“Certificate Can Be Issued To Kangana’s Film ‘Emergency’ If Some Cuts Are Made”: Censor Board To Bombay HC

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on Thursday has informed the Bombay High Court that a certificate for Kangana Ranaut’s film “Emergency” would be granted, contingent upon the implementation of specific cuts recommended by its revising committee.

The film, originally scheduled for release on September 6, has faced delays due to ongoing disputes with the CBFC regarding the issuance of its certification.

Kangana Ranaut, who directed, co-produced, and stars in the film as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has accused the CBFC of intentionally stalling certification to impede the film’s release.

The biographical drama has generated controversy, particularly among some Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, which have alleged that the film misrepresents the Sikh community and distorts historical facts.

A division bench of Justices B.P. Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla expressed strong disapproval of the CBFC’s inaction last week, asserting that the board must render a decision to avoid infringing upon freedom of speech and expression. The court directed the CBFC to resolve the matter by September 25.

In a related development, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, the film’s co-producer, petitioned the High Court for an order compelling the CBFC to issue a certification for “Emergency.” On Thursday, the bench inquired if the CBFC had any positive updates regarding the film.

Counsel for the CBFC, Abhinav Chandrachud, confirmed that the revising committee had made a determination, suggesting that certain cuts be made prior to the issuance of the certification and subsequent release of the film.

Senior counsel Sharan Jagtiani, representing Zee Entertainment, requested additional time to assess whether the recommended cuts could be accommodated. The bench scheduled further hearings for September 30. In its plea, Zee Entertainment contended that the CBFC had already prepared the certification but was withholding its issuance.

Last week, Zee Entertainment alleged that the delay was politically motivated, particularly in light of the upcoming elections in Haryana. The bench questioned why the ruling party would act against Ranaut, who is herself a Member of Parliament from the BJP.

Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International

Meera Verma

Recent Posts

Rajasthan HC Quashes SC/ST Case Against Actress Shilpa Shetty

The Rajasthan High Court on Thursday quashed a complaint filed under the SC/ST (Prevention of…

16 hours ago

Allahabad HC Turns Down Appeal Seeking Appointment Of Receiver For Jaigurudev Sanstha

The Allahabad High Court on Thursday has dismissed an appeal filed by the Jaigurudev Dharma…

16 hours ago

Shivaji Statue Collapse Case: Bombay HC Grants Bail To Consultant Chetan Patil

The Bombay High Court granted bail to consultant Chetan Patil on Thursday in connection with…

17 hours ago

Excise Policy Case: Delhi HC Refuses To Stay Trial Against Arvind Kejriwal

The Delhi High Court on Thursday declined to stay the trial proceedings against former Delhi…

18 hours ago

AP Assembly Passes Resolution To Set Up HC Bench In Kurnool

The Andhra Pradesh Assembly on Thursday passed a resolution to establish a permanent High Court…

18 hours ago

Lesbian Couple Desiring Child Gets Bail In Kidnapping Of Minor Girl

The Bombay High Court on Thursday granted bail to a lesbian couple arrested for allegedly…

18 hours ago