The Delhi High Court ordered a special screening of the movie “Udaipur Files”. This comes as the film, which delves into the 2022 murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur, Rajasthan, has ignited debate about artistic expression versus the potential to fuel communal strife.
Why the Controversy?
Petitioners, including Maulana Arshad Madani and the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, raised concerns. They argued that the film’s narrative, especially its trailer, could inflame existing communal tensions and jeopardize public order.
The petitioners’ concerns also delve into how the film portrays a community. While the murder was the act of two individuals, there are worries that the film might portray a broader picture of collective guilt, implicating an entire community. Scenes depicting Muslim religious leaders in a negative light have raised concerns, leading to accusations of a biased narrative. Freedom of speech, while a fundamental right, cannot undermine India’s secular values.
The Court’s Intervention and the Censor Board’s Role
The Delhi High Court directed a special screening after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) stated it had made significant cuts to both the film and its trailer, believing these modifications addressed the initial concerns according to The News Minute. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal countered that the film’s intent, even after the cuts, remains to target a particular community and promote disharmony. He urged the court to view the full version.
The court’s solution is a private screening for the legal representatives of both sides. This includes Kapil Sibal, along with ASG Chetan Sharma from the CBFC. The goal is to allow these individuals to examine the censored version and present their findings to the court, which was scheduled to hear the matter again on July 10, 2025.
What Lies Ahead?
This special screening is a crucial point in the “Udaipur Files” saga. The Supreme Court declined an urgent plea to halt the film’s release earlier. The Delhi High Court’s directive allows a thorough assessment of the film’s content. This decision highlights the judiciary’s role in navigating artistic freedom and maintaining communal harmony and public order. The outcome of this screening will affect the film’s future and the conversation around such sensitive topics in cinematic storytelling.
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