New Delhi, Oct 28 (NationPress) A public interest litigation (PIL) has been lodged at the Delhi High Court seeking protective measures against the impending release of the film 'The Taj Story'. The petition claims that the film distorts historical truths and poses a risk to communal harmony.

Advocate Shakeel Abbas filed the petition, arguing that the film, which is set to launch nationwide on October 31, is "entirely based on fabricated facts" and serves as a "catalyst for communal unrest among diverse communities in India".

The petition highlights that the film’s teaser and promotional materials depict the Taj Mahal dome being lifted, revealing a figure of Lord Shiva. Such portrayals have sparked significant public discourse regarding communal harmony and the authenticity of its historical assertions.

The respondents include the Union of India, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and various individuals associated with the film, such as Swarnim Global Services Pvt. Ltd., producer C.A. Suresh Jha, director Tushar Amrish Goel, writer Saurabh M. Pandey, Zee Music Company, and actor Paresh Rawal.

The petition alleges that the respondents are attempting to mislead audiences by disseminating false information regarding the Taj Mahal. It critiques the CBFC and other authorities for their inaction concerning the film.

The petition suggests that the film "intends to challenge the established narrative surrounding the origins of the Taj Mahal" and advocates for "speculative or discredited theories" previously associated with historian P.N. Oak.

It warns that when such claims are presented in mass media, particularly films, they risk misleading the public and undermining academic integrity.

Referring to Article 51A(f) of the Constitution, which urges citizens to safeguard India's composite culture, the PIL calls on the Delhi High Court to instruct the CBFC to reassess its certification and implement disclaimers to avert communal discord.

Furthermore, the plea cautions that the movie's release could instigate public unrest in Agra and beyond, with speculative portrayals of the UNESCO World Heritage site potentially damaging tourism and public order.

The PIL requests that the filmmakers be mandated to include a clear disclaimer asserting that 'The Taj Story' is "a contested narrative and not a definitive historical account," and that authorities take measures to ensure no communal incidents occur post-release.