Kangana’s ‘Emergency’ Release Stopped in Punjab Due to Protest Fears
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Synopsis
Kangana Ranaut's film 'Emergency' has been halted in Punjab cities Patiala, Amritsar, and Bathinda due to threats of protests. Sikh organizations have called for a ban, claiming the film distorts history and misrepresents Sikhs. Authorities are taking precautions to maintain peace amid heightened tensions surrounding the film's controversial subject matter.
Key Takeaways
- Kangana Ranaut's film “Emergency” faces bans in Punjab.
- Protests led by Sikh organizations against the film.
- SGPC demands a ban, citing historical misrepresentation.
- Authorities are prioritizing public safety amid unrest fears.
- Kangana defends her film, calling protests unjust.
Mumbai, Jan 17 (NationPress) Filmmaker-actress Kangana Ranaut’s latest film “Emergency” has encountered another setback as it is currently suspended in Patiala, Amritsar, and Bathinda due to concerns over potential protests.
Across Punjab, protests are erupting as various leaders from Sikh organizations, including the Sriomani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), are demanding a ban on “Emergency”. They argue that the film “damages the reputation of Sikhs and misrepresents history”.
A statement shared by SGPC has reiterated its demand for a ban on the film in Punjab, which was set to premiere on January 17, 2025.
The film is expected to be controversial due to its exploration of the challenging era of the 1975 Emergency declared by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It examines the historical and political turmoil of that time, revealing a chapter that still evokes strong reactions across the country.
Local officials in the three cities of Punjab have taken a proactive approach, indicating that the film’s narrative could incite unrest among certain factions. Authorities have prioritized maintaining law and order, especially given the sensitive nature of the film’s content.
Sukhpal Singh Khaira, a Congress leader, shared the SGPC letter on X, previously known as Twitter, stating: “I back @SGPCAmritsar’s call to prohibit the film Emergency directed by @KanganaTeam, a recognized critic of farmers and Sikhs without acknowledging their contributions to our nation.”
Khaira further commented, “SGPC represents us and @BhagwantMann must act swiftly to prohibit the film that portrays Sikhs negatively and brings disgrace to our state of Punjab and its citizens.”
In response, Kangana stated: “This is sheer harassment of art and the artist; several cities in Punjab are reporting that these individuals are blocking the screening of Emergency. I have the highest respect for all faiths and, having grown up in Chandigarh, have closely studied and followed Sikhism. This is a complete falsehood and a smear campaign against my image and my film #Emergency.”
