Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ release possible after cuts

Kangana Ranaut’s film ‘Emergency’ can only be released if certain cuts suggested by a panel of the Censor Board are made, the Censor Board told the Bombay High Court on Thursday.

The film, which was earlier scheduled for release on September 6, has been delayed following protests by Sikh groups who allege that the movie misrepresents their community.

Advocate Abhinav Chandrachud, representing the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), informed the bench of Justices BP Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla that the CBFC’s revising committee has suggested several modifications to the film. These modifications are required before the censor certificate can be issued.

Zee Studios, the co-producer of the film, had filed a petition seeking the release of the censor certificate. Advocate Sharan Jagtiani, representing Zee, presented a document in court outlining 11 specific modifications suggested by the CBFC.

The suggested changes include certain cuts and insertions to be made in the film. The filmmakers now have to decide whether they will comply with these changes or challenge them.

The court has adjourned the hearing until September 30, awaiting the filmmakers’ decision.

‘Emergency’ is a biographical political thriller that revolves around the life of the late former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the 21-month Emergency period imposed from 1975 to 1977. The film is written, directed, and produced by Kangana Ranaut herself.

Sikh organizations have raised concerns about the portrayal of their community and the historical accuracy of certain facts in the film. They have called for a complete ban on the movie.

The calls for a ban have intensified after Kangana Ranaut’s recent controversial comments regarding the farmers’ protests and the now-repealed three farm laws. Her remarks drew criticism from the BJP, and she was eventually forced to retract her comments.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

See Full Bio