Background Information
The Supreme Court (apex court) made a ruling on January 18 to allow the controversial Padmaavat movie to be screened in cinema halls all over India. It ruled that the film will be released on January 25, 2018. Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan governments moved to the Supreme Court to try and reverse the January 18 order on Monday. The governments supported by local groups such as Shri Rajput Karni Sena. The group went round cinema halls on Sunday to ask hall members not to screen the movie till the Supreme Court makes its ruling. They also vowed to intensify their protests outside of Rajasthan threatening cinema hall owners of dire consequences if they dare screen Padmaavat.
The film stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor. It is set to be released in three languages; Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil expected to reach a wider audience. The controversy stems behind accusations of Sanjay’s manipulation of history in some of his movies.
Apex court Ruling
As slated for Tuesday 23rd, the Court honored its word to hear the pleas of Rajasthan and MP governments and make a ruling on the same appeal. A three-judge bench led by India’s Chief Justice, Dipak Misra gave the Court’s decision that it stands by its January 18 ruling made. The film will be screened all over India as scheduled. Referring to the go-ahead made by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Misra remarked that there exist statutory organs and the Court’s order which need to be respected. It is expected that the people and governments abide by the law. Misra informed that those who do not want to watch it should not.
The Supreme Court also stated that ensuring law and order during the screening of the movie is the responsibility of the states. States like MP and Rajasthan that were against the screening of Padmaavat could abscond on their mandate to protect property and maintain law and order. Interested parties who wish to view the movie are entitled to security.
Shri Rajput Karni Sena Continues amid Court Ruling
Despite the Apex Court ruling, the Shri Rajput Karni Sena group still propagates their protests linked to damage to property. Karni Sena held destructive demonstrations in Rajasthan attacking ticketing booths at Uttar Pradesh and Hapur cinema halls. It is not clear whether the group will stand down.
