Kangana Ranaut‘s upcoming film Emergency has landed in hot water just days before its scheduled release, as various Sikh groups have called for a boycott of the film. The controversy escalated further when the Delhi unit of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) demanded that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) halt the film’s release, accusing it of spreading misinformation and potentially inciting communal tensions.
Why The Akali Dal Is Demanding Ban On Emergency?
Paramjit Singh Sarna, the Delhi president of SAD, wrote a letter to the CBFC on Wednesday, expressing serious concerns over the film’s trailer. He alleged that the film “depicts erroneous historical facts that not only misrepresent the Sikh community but also promote hatred and social discord.” Sarna emphasized that such portrayals are misleading, and offensive, and could harm the social fabric of Punjab and the nation at large. The controversy is not limited to the SAD. Last week, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takht, two of the highest authorities in Sikhism, also demanded an immediate ban on the film. SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami, during a press conference, accused the film of attempting to character assassinate Sikhs and create a negative narrative against them. Dhami also called for an FIR against Ranaut and criticized the CBFC for being “biased,” urging the inclusion of Sikh members in the censor board to ensure fair representation.
Gyani Raghbir Singh, Jathedar (head) of the Akal Takht, went a step further, accusing the film of deliberately misrepresenting Sikhs as separatists, which he called part of a deep conspiracy. He claimed the film disrespects the Sikh community and targets Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, a figure revered by many Sikhs as a martyr.
Kangana Ranaut On Emergency
Kangana Ranaut announced Emergency in 2021, clarifying that while it is a political drama, it is not a biopic of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. In addition to starring in the lead role, Ranaut is also directing the film. The cast includes notable actors like Anupam Kher, Milind Soman, Mahima Chaudhry, and Shreyas Talpade. The movie is scheduled to be released on September 6, 2024.