Delhi High Court stays release of Vijay Raaz-starrer Udaipur Files
In a significant development, the Delhi High Court has ordered a stay on the release of the upcoming movie ‘Udaipur Files’, which is based on the gruesome murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Rajasthan. The film, which features acclaimed actor Vijay Raaz in the lead role, has been stayed until the Central Government decides on the revision application filed by Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind challenging the CBFC’s certification of the film.
For those who may not be aware, ‘Udaipur Files’ is a Bollywood film that revolves around the murder of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor who was brutally killed by two Muslim men, Riaz Akhtari and Ghouse Mohammed, in Udaipur, Rajasthan, in June 2022. The incident sparked widespread outrage and was widely condemned by people from all walks of life.
The film, which is directed by Tej Narayan Agarwal, was cleared for release by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with an ‘A’ certificate. However, Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind, a prominent Muslim organization, has filed a revision application challenging the certification, citing that the film could potentially spark communal tensions and disturb public peace.
The Delhi High Court, while granting the stay on the release of the film, has given the Central Government four weeks to decide on the revision application filed by Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind. The court has also directed the Central Government to consider the concerns raised by Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind and take a decision on the certification of the film.
Reacting to the stay, Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind has welcomed the decision, saying that it is a major victory for the organization and its efforts to ensure that the film does not get cleared for release. “We are happy that the Delhi High Court has stayed the release of the film, which could have potentially sparked communal tensions and disturbed public peace,” said a spokesperson for Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind.
On the other hand, the producers of the film have expressed disappointment over the stay, saying that it is an attempt to muzzle the creative freedom of filmmakers. “We are shocked and disappointed by the decision of the Delhi High Court to stay the release of our film. We believe that the film is a work of art that has the potential to spark important conversations and debates. We will file an appeal against the stay and hope that the court will see things from our perspective,” said a spokesperson for the film’s production house.
The stay on the release of ‘Udaipur Files’ has sparked a heated debate in the film industry, with many filmmakers and actors expressing their support for the film. “I strongly believe that the film should be allowed to release. It is a brave attempt to tell a story that needs to be told. We should not be stifling creativity and free speech,” said a prominent Bollywood director.
The incident has also raised questions about the role of the Central Government in regulating the film industry. “The Central Government has a responsibility to ensure that films do not disturb public peace and order. However, it should also ensure that filmmakers are given the creative freedom to tell their stories. The stay on the release of ‘Udaipur Files’ is a classic example of the government’s overreach,” said a film critic.
In conclusion, the stay on the release of ‘Udaipur Files’ is a significant development that has sparked a heated debate in the film industry. While some have welcomed the decision, others have expressed disappointment and frustration. As the matter is likely to be resolved in the coming weeks, it remains to be seen whether the film will be allowed to release or not.
News Source: https://x.com/ANI/status/1943355275605430501
