Kerala High Court Declines to Ban 'Empuraan' Screening
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has refused to impose a ban on the film 'Empuraan', addressing concerns raised by a petitioner regarding its content. The court highlighted that the film has been certified by the CBFC, and emphasized the absence of registered complaints related to incitement of violence. The matter will be reviewed after the court's vacation.
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala High Court dismissed a petition to ban 'Empuraan'.
- Concerns about the film's content were raised, but the court found no merit.
- The film has received certification from the CBFC.
- Producer announced a re-edit with 24 cuts ahead of the global release.
- No criminal complaints have been filed regarding the film.
Kochi, April 1 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has on Tuesday declined to prohibit the screening of the contentious film Empuraan.
The Court questioned the petitioner, "Have you actually seen Empuraan? What is your concern? It was approved by the censor board, correct? I have doubts about your intentions. Can you provide one complaint regarding incitement of violence linked to this film? These seem to be petitions aimed at publicity."
The Court further noted the argument from the state attorney, emphasizing that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has already authorized the film for public viewing.
"The learned state attorney references the judgment in Sebin Thomas v. Union of India & Ors, reinforcing the idea that once certification is granted by statutory bodies, there is a presumption that the film is appropriate for viewing. He also mentioned that, as of now, no criminal cases have been filed by the State police. Given these arguments, the petitioner's request for interim relief is denied. The matter will be taken up after the vacation period of the Kerala High Court," stated the Court's order.
Empuraan, which serves as the sequel to Lucifer, has sparked controversy due to scenes referencing the 2002 Godhra riots and the resemblance of the main antagonist to a leader of the Bajrang Dal.
According to the complaint lodged by Vijeesh, the film includes scenes that mention the 2002 Godhra riots and make inappropriate comments about the Ministry of Defence, in addition to portraying central investigative agencies in a way that questions their credibility and integrity.
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, one of the film's producers, Antony Perumbavoor, announced that the entire team has opted for a re-edit consisting of 24 cuts, with the revised version set to be released globally starting Wednesday.
Earlier today, the BJP took action by suspending Vijeesh from the party.
