Kangana Ranaut's film Emergency has recently found itself embroiled in controversy, igniting debates across various platforms regarding its portrayal of sensitive historical events. Today, the Bombay High Court convened to deliberate on the film's impending release. Central to this hearing was the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which informed the court that Ranaut, who is also a co-producer of the film, has acquiesced to the cuts suggested by the board.
During the proceedings, as reported by Bar and Bench, CBFC lawyer Abhinav Chandrachud conveyed this development to the bench comprising Justices BP Kolse Patil and Firdosh Pooniwala. The court was addressing a petition filed by Zee Studios, another co-producer of Emergency, seeking the issuance of a censor certificate. This petition arose from allegations that the film misrepresents the Sikh community, prompting concerns that required judicial scrutiny.
Senior lawyer Sharan Jagatiyani, representing Zee Studios, apprised the bench of Ranaut's meeting with the CBFC, during which she consented to the recommended cuts. The CBFC proposed a total of 13 modifications, comprising six insertions, four deletions, and three alterations. This decision is particularly noteworthy given Ranaut's earlier assertion in an interview that she would not concede to any cuts and intended to release the film in its unabridged format.
The CBFC's recommendations specifically addressed apprehensions voiced by Sikh groups regarding their community's depiction within the film. Notably, the board has mandated that the producers include a disclaimer asserting that the film is "inspired by true events" and that it represents a "dramatic transformation." Such a disclaimer is intended to provide context and mitigate potential misunderstandings among viewers.
Further recommendations by the censor board include the removal of certain terminology, notably the terms "Sant" and "Bhindranwale," from a dialogue between Sanjay Gandhi and Giani Zail Singh. The board has also advised the exclusion of discussions involving former Prime Ministers and senior officials from the Indian Army, as well as the elimination of remarks that commend the controversial figure Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Additionally, the CBFC has requested the excision of any dialogue related to "Khalistan" and a reduction in scenes featuring Sikh characters.
In an effort to uphold the film’s credibility, the CBFC has urged that any use of "real footage" in the film be accompanied by static text indicating its authenticity. Furthermore, the board has requested that the filmmakers furnish documentary evidence to substantiate all statistics, statements, and references utilized within the film.
