Did the Calcutta HC Inquire About a Ban on 'The Bengal Files'?
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Synopsis
In a significant legal inquiry, the Calcutta High Court is questioning the West Bengal government about a potential ban on the screening of 'The Bengal Files'. This exploration into administrative directives highlights the ongoing tensions between cinema and politics in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The Calcutta High Court is investigating a potential ban on 'The Bengal Files'.
- West Bengal's cinema halls are reportedly not screening the film.
- The inquiry follows a public interest litigation for protecting artistic expression.
- Justice Sinha previously dismissed a petition against the film for lack of evidence.
- This film is part of a controversial trilogy exploring historical narratives.
Kolkata, Sep 23 (NationPress) A division bench of the Calcutta High Court requested the West Bengal government on Tuesday to clarify whether there were any explicit administrative directives prohibiting the screening of 'The Bengal Files', directed by Vivek Agnihotri, in cinema halls and multiplexes throughout Kolkata.
The bench, comprising Justice Sujay Paul and Justice Smita Das, instructed the state government to submit its response by September 26.
The issue will be revisited in court on the same date.
This inquiry arose from a public interest litigation (PIL) filed earlier this month, seeking the court's assistance to facilitate a smooth and peaceful screening process for 'The Bengal Files' in cinemas across West Bengal.
Currently, there appears to be an unofficial ban on the film, as cinema hall and multiplex owners are reportedly refraining from offering screening slots due to pressures from a particular political group.
During the hearing, Justice Paul questioned the state government counsel regarding the assertion that 'The Bengal Files' had not been screened in any cinema hall in Kolkata.
Earlier this month, a single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court, led by Justice Amrita Sinha, dismissed a petition against the film's screening, noting that the petitioner had failed to substantiate his claims with adequate information and supporting documents.
The petition was lodged by Santanu Mukherjee, the grandson of freedom fighter Gopal Mukherjee, who is depicted in the film.
Justice Sinha mentioned that such petitions did not fall under her court's jurisdiction and advised the petitioner to seek resolution through the proper channels.
'The Bengal Files' is the third installment in the 'Files' trilogy, with the first being 'The Tashkent Files' in 2019 and the second, the highly controversial 'The Kashmir Files', in 2022.
Previously, the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government faced criticism for allegedly imposing gag orders on other films, such as 'The Kerala Story', on seemingly flimsy grounds.
Point of View
The ongoing scrutiny into the administrative actions regarding 'The Bengal Files' underscores the critical intersection of cinema and governance. As an editor-in-chief, it is essential to advocate for artistic expression while ensuring that the integrity of the legal process is maintained. The discourse surrounding this film is not merely about entertainment; it reflects broader societal issues that warrant careful consideration.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'The Bengal Files' about?
The film 'The Bengal Files' is part of a trilogy directed by Vivek Agnihotri, exploring significant historical and political narratives within India.
Why is there controversy surrounding the screening?
The film is under scrutiny due to allegations of an unofficial ban influenced by political groups, raising questions about freedom of expression.
What action did the Calcutta High Court take?
The court has requested the West Bengal government to clarify the existence of any administrative ban on the film's screening.
When is the next court hearing scheduled?
The next hearing regarding this matter is scheduled for September 26.
Who filed the PIL related to the film?
The PIL was filed by Santanu Mukherjee, a descendant of a freedom fighter portrayed in the film.
