The Madhya Pradesh High Court is set to deliberate on a contentious issue surrounding the release of Kangana Ranaut’s latest film, “Emergency”, as it faces hurdles with the Censor Board. The court will hear a plea from the Jabalpur Sikh Sangat, a Sikh community body, on Monday, which seeks to halt the film’s distribution.
“Emergency”, starring and directed by Kangana Ranaut, who also serves as the BJP MP for Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, is scheduled for release on September 6. The film, in which Ranaut portrays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has stirred controversy particularly regarding its depiction of historical events.
Senior Advocate NS Ruprah, representing the petitioner, emphasized that the film poses a risk to societal harmony. “The Sangat, in its petition, has raised concerns that the movie could infringe upon the fundamental rights of the Sikh community,” Ruprah explained. He confirmed that the case is listed for a hearing before a division bench on September 2.
The plea comes amidst claims from Ranaut that despite ongoing rumors about the film’s clearance, it remains pending with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). She recently addressed these issues in a video on social media platform X, where she mentioned receiving threats aimed at discouraging the depiction of Indira Gandhi’s assassination by her security guards, an event that significantly involves the Sikh community.
The film’s controversy has attracted attention from political circles as well, with BJP leader and former state minister Harindrajeet Singh Baboo commenting on the sensitivity of the issue. “Kangana Ranaut, now an elected member of Parliament, must consider the feelings of the Sikh community, including those in her own constituency who supported her election,” Baboo stated, questioning the film’s potential impact on national unity.
