Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency, centered around the controversial 1975 Emergency period imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, may soon see the light of day following the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) recent statements in the Bombay High Court. The board indicated that it would issue a certification for the film, contingent upon the producers implementing certain recommended cuts.
The film’s release, initially scheduled for September 6, was postponed as the producers engaged in a protracted dispute with the CBFC regarding certification. Kangana, who not only stars as Indira Gandhi but also directs and co-produces the film, accused the board of intentionally delaying the certification process.
In a twist to the story, several Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, have raised objections, claiming that the film misrepresents their community and distorts historical facts. Last week, the Bombay High Court criticized the CBFC for its indecisiveness regarding the issuance of the film’s certificate and ordered the board to reach a decision by September 25.
Following the court’s directive, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, the film’s co-producer, approached the High Court seeking a resolution. During a recent hearing, the bench inquired whether the CBFC had any positive updates regarding the film’s status. CBFC’s counsel, Abhinav Chandrachud, revealed that the board’s revising committee had made its decision, suggesting cuts before a certificate could be granted.
Zee Entertainment’s senior counsel, Sharan Jagtiani, requested additional time to deliberate on the feasibility of making the recommended cuts. The bench scheduled the next hearing for September 30, as Zee Entertainment had previously alleged that the delay in certification was politically motivated, particularly with upcoming elections in Haryana.
Sources By Agencies
