Bombay High Court Discusses Kangana Ranaut’s Film ‘Emergency’ Certification
The Bombay High Court has stated it cannot direct the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a certificate for Kangana Ranaut’s film ‘Emergency’ due to a conflicting order from the MP High Court. The CBFC has been asked to decide by September 18, with the next hearing on September 19.
Zee Entertainment Enterprises, the film’s co-producer, approached the Bombay High Court, claiming the CBFC arbitrarily withheld the censor certificate. The MP High Court had directed the CBFC to consider representations from Sikh groups who filed a petition.
The Bombay High Court emphasized that arguments should have been made before the MP High Court and questioned how groups could deem the film objectionable without viewing it. The court also noted that directing the CBFC to issue a certificate would violate another High Court’s order.
The lawyer for Kangana Ranaut’s production house argued that no changes would be made to the film, which was sealed by the CBFC. On August 8, 2024, the CBFC asked for changes, which were made and submitted by August 14. The CBFC then indicated the certificate was prepared, but delays ensued.
Kangana Ranaut addressed the delays on social media, stating that the certification process is stalled due to death threats against CBFC members.
Doubts Revealed
Bombay High Court -: The Bombay High Court is a high court in India that has authority over the states of Maharashtra and Goa. It is one of the oldest high courts in the country.
Kangana Ranaut -: Kangana Ranaut is a famous Indian actress known for her roles in Bollywood movies. She has won several awards for her acting.
Film ‘Emergency’ -: The film ‘Emergency’ is a movie directed by Kangana Ranaut. It is about a period in Indian history when the government declared a state of emergency.
Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) -: The CBFC is an organization in India that reviews movies and decides if they are suitable for public viewing. They give certificates that tell who can watch the movie.
MP High Court -: The MP High Court is the high court for the state of Madhya Pradesh in India. It handles legal cases and issues orders within the state.
Zee Entertainment -: Zee Entertainment is a large media company in India that produces and distributes movies, TV shows, and other content. They are co-producing the film ‘Emergency’.
Arbitrarily -: Arbitrarily means doing something based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system. In this context, it means the CBFC withheld the certificate without a clear reason.
Objectionable -: Objectionable means something that people might find offensive or unacceptable. In this case, some groups think the film ‘Emergency’ might be offensive without even watching it.