13 Censor Cuts for Kangana’s ‘Emergency’

13 Censor Cuts for Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency,’ Bhindranwale Dialogue Removed

Kangana Ranaut’s much-anticipated film ‘Emergency’ has faced major cuts from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film, which portrays the Emergency period from 1975 to 1977, stars Kangana as the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Though the film has been granted a U/A certificate, the censor board has issued 13 key cuts, primarily focusing on removing violent scenes and references to Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a figure associated with the Khalistan movement. Several Sikh groups had complained about the portrayal of the community, prompting these cuts.

Major Changes and Cuts:

Bhindranwale Dialogue: In the film, a conversation between Bhindranwale and Sanjay Gandhi involves Bhindranwale stating that he wants Khalistan, while Gandhi wants votes. The censor board has asked for the complete removal of this dialogue.
Use of ‘Saint’: Bhindranwale is referred to as a ‘saint’ in several scenes, which the board has ordered to be removed, especially in dialogues between Sanjay Gandhi, Giani Zail Singh, and Indira Gandhi.
Violent Scenes: The film contains scenes where Sikhs are shown attacking non-Sikhs, including a sequence where a non-Sikh is shot in front of a bus. The board has asked for these scenes to be toned down.
Operation Bluestar Reference: The board has objected to a conversation between Indira Gandhi and the Army Chief, where they discuss Operation Bluestar and its supposed timing on Arjun Divas, a day marking the martyrdom of Guru Arjan. The reference has been asked to be removed.
Disclaimer: A disclaimer is now required at the beginning of the film, stating that the story is inspired by true events but contains dramatic recreations.

Additionally, where real-life footage is used, the board has instructed that a simple disclaimer be inserted to provide context for viewers.

Response from the Production House

Zee Entertainment, the film’s production house, has requested more time to consider the changes. While the CBFC has already issued the certificate, the board insists that these cuts must be implemented before the film’s release.

The production team now has the option to either accept the cuts, appeal in court, or negotiate with the board to find a middle ground.

Neither Kangana Ranaut nor the film’s team has commented on the recommendations yet.