Emergency’ Controversy: CBFC Recommends Changes to Kangana Ranaut’s Indira Gandhi Biopic Ahead of Release

Ziya Khan 6 days agoLast Updated: September 27, 2024

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut is no stranger to controversy, and her upcoming film Emergency is no exception. Since the release of its trailer, which features Ranaut as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the film has sparked considerable debate. Recently, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) informed the Bombay High Court that Emergency could receive a theatrical release, provided certain cuts are made.

The CBFC has proposed a total of 13 modifications, including 6 insertions, 4 exclusions, and 3 changes. This condition from the CBFC comes despite Ranaut’s declaration in an interview that she refuses to cut any scenes from her film and intends to release it in its original form. The CBFC’s committee pointed out that the film contains “scenes depicting political violence and unrest, along with mild references to atrocities against women,” leading them to classify it as suitable for viewing only with parental guidance for children under 12. Here are some specific changes recommended by the CBFC:

The committee addressed concerns from Sikh groups regarding their portrayal in the film.
They requested the inclusion of a disclaimer indicating that the film is “inspired by true events” and represents a “dramatic transformation.”
The board advised the removal of terms like ‘Sant’ and ‘Bhindranwale’ from a dialogue between Sanjay Gandhi and Giani Zail Singh.
They also called for the deletion of a dialogue involving the former Prime Minister and senior military officials.
The filmmakers were instructed to remove any praise for Sikh militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and to cut visuals and dialogues depicting violence against non-Sikhs.
The CBFC recommended that any references to ‘Khalistan’ be omitted and that scenes featuring Sikhs be toned down.
Furthermore, they suggested inserting static text to denote “real footage” wherever applicable in the film.
Lastly, the board requested documentary proof for all statistics, statements, and references used in the film.

Meanwhile, co-producer Zee Entertainment Limited has alleged that the CBFC “illegally” and “arbitrarily” withheld certification for the film, seeking additional time to determine if the suggested cuts would be implemented.In response, the Bombay High Court urged the CBFC to clarify its position, criticizing its indecision on issuing a certificate. The bench emphasized that the censor board must make a definitive choice, as failing to do so could infringe on free speech and expression.