Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ can be released if certain cuts are made, court told

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut’s film ‘Emergency’ can be released if certain cuts suggested by a panel are made, the Censor Board told the Bombay High Court on Thursday. The film’s release – earlier scheduled for September 6 – has been hanging fire after protests by Sikh groups who allege that it misrepresents their community.
The Censor Board’s response came on a plea filed by Zee Studios, the co-producer of ‘Emergency’, seeking the release of the censor certificate for the film.
Appearing for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), advocate Abhinav Chandrachud told a bench of Justices BP Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla that the CBFC’s revising committee suggested some cuts for the film.
Advocate Sharan Jagtiani, appearing on behalf of Zee, got a document which showed about 11 modifications to be done in the film before it is released.
The 11 modifications suggested include some cuts and insertions to be done in the film. The filmmakers will now decide whether they will agree to these modifications or will challenge them.
The High Court adjourned the matter to September 30 (Monday).
‘Emergency’ is a biographical political thriller and delves into the life of late former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who imposed a 21-month Emergency period from 1975 to 1977. The film is written, directed and produced by Kangana Ranaut.
On September 4, the Bombay High Court refused to direct the CBFC to immediately issue a certificate for ‘Emergency’.
Sikh organisations raised concerns over the portrayal of their community and the accuracy of historical facts in the film. They have called for a complete ban of the movie.
Calls for a ban have intensified after Kangana Ranaut’s recent controversial comments regarding the farmers’ protests and the now-withdrawn three farm laws. Her remarks have drawn rebukes from the BJP, forcing the actor-politician to take back her remarks.