theindianstatesman.com

‘Udaipur Files’ Release Stayed by Delhi HC; Producer Amit Jani Vows to Move Supreme Court

[Photo : ANI]

After the Delhi High Court ordered a stay on the release of the film ‘Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder’, the film’s producer Amit Jani has announced his intention to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.

Speaking to ANI, Jani said, “We had screened the film for their lawyer Kapil Sibal. Despite the screening, he opposed it since he was paid to do so. Today, the High Court stayed the film’s release, but we are moving to the Supreme Court. The Central Government has been asked to decide within seven days whether the film is appropriate.”

Jani expressed frustration over the legal delays in the original case. “Kanhaiya Lal was murdered in front of cameras three years ago, yet there’s still no verdict. But a film portraying his pain has been stayed within just three days,” he said.

The Delhi High Court’s decision comes in response to petitions filed by Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind and journalist Prashant Tandon, challenging the certification granted by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The court ruled that the release of the film will remain on hold until the Centre decides on the revisional application against the certification.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Anish Dayal passed the interim order, stating: “We provide that till the grant of interim relief is decided, there shall be a stay on the release of the film.”

Petitioners argued that the film could disrupt communal harmony and pose a risk to public order, particularly given the sensitive nature of the 2022 Udaipur murder incident. The movie depicts the killing of tailor Kanhaiya Lal, who was murdered in broad daylight by two individuals reportedly enraged by his social media post in support of former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. The crime had sparked nationwide outrage over radicalisation and communal violence.

Concerns were also raised about the film’s release timing, with petitioners suggesting it could influence public sentiment ahead of upcoming state elections.

Originally slated for release on July 11, Udaipur Files now awaits a decision from the Central Government before any further action.

Exit mobile version