New Delhi: The release of Kangana Ranaut’s highly anticipated film Emergency has been postponed indefinitely following significant controversy surrounding its portrayal of the Sikh community. Originally scheduled to hit theaters on September 6, the film’s release has been delayed after the Certification Board demanded additional cuts, citing concerns over potential communal tensions.
The controversy erupted after the release of the film’s trailer, which led to widespread backlash in Punjab. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) issued a legal notice to the Certification Board, urging it to halt the film’s release. The notice, dated August 27, accused the film of inciting communal tensions and spreading misinformation, specifically targeting the Sikh community.
“Such depictions are not only misleading but also deeply offensive and damaging to the social fabric of Punjab and the entire nation. It is apparent that Ranaut has chosen the subject of the Emergency not to make a genuine political or historical statement against Congress, but rather to target the Sikh community,” the notice read.
The film, which focuses on the Emergency period in India (1975-1977) and the political upheavals of that time, has sparked concerns that it portrays the Sikh community in an “unjust and negative light.”
In response to the controversy, the Certification Board has asked the filmmakers to make further cuts to ensure that the sentiments of all communities are respected. This decision has led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release as the filmmakers work to address the Board’s concerns.
Kangana Ranaut, known for her outspoken nature, has defended the film, stating that she is prepared to go to court if necessary. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she expressed her frustration with the pressure to alter key historical elements of the film, including the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the role of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the Punjab riots.
“There is pressure on us to not show the assassination of Mrs. Gandhi, Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the Punjab riots. I don’t know what we will show then…” Ranaut wrote.
The ongoing controversy and the delay in the film’s release have drawn significant attention, with many awaiting the final decision of the Certification Board and the filmmakers’ response. As of now, no new release date has been announced.
Sources By Agencies
