The Bombay High Court was informed on Thursday by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) that Kangana Ranaut’s much-anticipated film “Emergency” could receive its certification for release if it complies with some suggested edits from the board’s revising committee. The film, initially scheduled for a September 6 debut, has faced delays due to certification issues, leading to a legal confrontation.
“Emergency,” which features Ranaut in the dual roles of director and lead actor portraying former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has stirred controversy and opposition, notably from Sikh organizations like the Shiromani Akali Dal. These groups have accused the film of distorting historical facts and misrepresenting the Sikh community, contributing to heightened scrutiny from the CBFC.
The legal push for certification gained traction after the movie’s co-producer, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, petitioned the High Court to mandate the CBFC to issue the necessary certificate. Responding to the plea, a division bench comprising Justices B P Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla criticized the CBFC last week for its indecision, which they argued could impinge on freedom of speech and expression. The court had set a deadline of September 25 for the CBFC to finalize its verdict on the film’s release.
During the latest court session, CBFC’s counsel, Abhinav Chandrachud, revealed that the revising committee had agreed to issue the certificate pending certain cuts. The specifics of these recommended cuts have not been publicly disclosed, but their acceptance is crucial for the film’s clearance.
Senior counsel Sharan Jagtiani, representing Zee Entertainment, requested additional time for the production team to decide whether they can comply with the CBFC’s conditions. The court has adjourned the matter to September 30 for further deliberations.
The backdrop of the legal and certification battle includes allegations from Zee Entertainment that the delay in issuing the certificate is politically motivated, especially given the upcoming elections in Haryana. This assertion prompted the bench to query why the ruling party would oppose Ranaut, a BJP MP, underscoring the complex interplay of cinema, politics, and law.
