Will the Delhi High Court Block the Release of ‘Udaipur Files’?
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Synopsis
The Delhi High Court has denied a request to stop the release of 'Udaipur Files,' a film based on the controversial Kanhaiya Lal murder case. This decision raises questions about the balance between creative expression and judicial proceedings in sensitive matters.
Key Takeaways
- The Delhi High Court ruled against halting the release of 'Udaipur Files.'
- The film is based on the Kanhaiya Lal murder case.
- One of the accused sought to stop the film's release due to ongoing trial concerns.
- The court emphasized the balance of convenience favors the film's producer.
- The film is set for release following approval from the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court has ruled against an interim order to halt the release of the film ‘Udaipur Files’, which is inspired by the Kanhaiya Lal murder case.
With this recent decision, the film—focused on the shocking June 2022 killing of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor in Udaipur, Rajasthan, at the hands of Mohammed Riyaz Attari and Ghaus Mohammad—is set to premiere this Friday.
One of the defendants in the case, Mohammed Javed, had filed a writ petition with the Delhi HC, requesting a stay on the film’s release. He argued that the film's launch could negatively influence the ongoing trial in the Special NIA court.
Javed contended that the trailer and promotional content of the movie feature inflammatory and communally sensitive material, which could potentially disrupt the nation's religious harmony and interfere with the judicial process.
However, in dismissing the request to postpone the film’s release, a panel comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela stated: “The petitioner (Javed) has failed to convince the court that a prima facie case exists in his favor. The producer has committed substantial resources to the film's production. If we were to suspend its release, it would upset the balance of convenience, which, in our view, favors the producer.”
Previously, the film was scheduled for a worldwide debut on July 11, but its release was paused by a prior order from the Delhi High Court.
The issue escalated to the Supreme Court, which instructed those opposed to the film’s release to approach the Delhi High Court to contest the Centre’s order that granted permission for the movie’s screening with six edits.
On Wednesday, the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting informed the Delhi High Court that it had dismissed revision petitions filed under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and upheld the certification of Udaipur Files.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of navigating between the realms of artistic expression and the judicial process. The Delhi High Court's ruling underscores a commitment to uphold creative freedom, while also addressing the concerns raised by those involved in ongoing legal matters. This delicate balance is essential in a democratic society.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Udaipur Files' about?
The film 'Udaipur Files' is based on the real-life murder case of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor who was brutally killed in Udaipur, Rajasthan, in June 2022.
Why did the Delhi High Court refuse to stay the film's release?
The court determined that the petitioner did not present enough evidence to justify halting the film's release and emphasized the significant investment made by the producer.
Who is behind the film 'Udaipur Files'?
The film is produced by a team that aimed to depict real events surrounding the Kanhaiya Lal murder case, with a focus on its implications.
What were the concerns regarding the film's release?
Concerns were raised about the film's potential to prejudice ongoing trial proceedings and contain content that could disturb communal harmony.
When is 'Udaipur Files' set to be released?
The film is scheduled to be released on Friday following the Delhi High Court's latest ruling.
