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Supreme Court Refuses Ban on 'Udaipur Files', Refers Case to Delhi High Court

Supreme Court Refuses Ban on 'Udaipur Files', Refers Case to Delhi High Court

The film 'Udaipur Files' has been embroiled in legal troubles even before its release and is constantly surrounded by controversies. However, in a significant turn, the Supreme Court has refused to impose a direct ban on the film's release.

Udaipur Files Row: The ongoing controversy surrounding the much-discussed film 'Udaipur Files' has now taken a new turn. The Supreme Court on Friday refused to stay the release of this film. The court clarified that this matter falls within the judicial purview of the Delhi High Court and should be addressed there. Along with this, the Supreme Court has directed the petitioners to approach the Delhi High Court for a hearing on July 28, 2025.

What is the 'Udaipur Files' Controversy?

The film 'Udaipur Files' is directed by Bharat Shreenet and stars actor Vijay Raaz in the lead role. The film is said to be based on the true incident of the murder of tailor Kanhaiyalal in Udaipur, Rajasthan in the year 2022. The makers claim that the facts have been presented in the film without any bias, but Muslim organizations have described it as defaming a particular community.

Supreme Court's Stance

During the hearing, the Supreme Court made it clear that it would not impose a direct ban on the release of this film, but the Delhi High Court can take an appropriate decision on all the legal and sensitive aspects related to the film. The court said that if the petitioners have any objections, they should present their arguments in the Delhi High Court.

Following this directive from the Supreme Court, this matter will now be presented before the Delhi High Court on July 28, where the petitions filed by Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind and the accused in the Kanhaiyalal murder case will be considered.

What are the Petitioners' Objections?

The petition filed by Maulana Arshad Madani, head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, states that the Muslim community has been misrepresented in the film, which could spread religious animosity in society. The petition also alleges that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) did not act impartially while approving the film. According to the petitioners, several members of the CBFC panel are associated with the same political party, raising concerns about bias.

Mohammad Javed, an accused in the Kanhaiyalal murder case, has also filed a petition seeking a stay on the film's release until his criminal trial is complete, so that the film does not create social prejudice against him.

Makers' Reaction and New Release Date

After the Supreme Court's decision, the film's director, Bharat Shreenet, immediately announced the new release date, stating that 'Udaipur Files' will now be released in cinemas on August 8, 2025. Bharat Shreenet said that he has obtained all the necessary certificates from the CBFC and that there is no malicious content against any community in the film.

The makers also say that this film falls within the scope of freedom of expression and its purpose is only to bring out the truth, not to target any religion or class.

Legal and Social Perspectives

The film 'Udaipur Files' has once again highlighted the complex boundaries between the Indian film industry and the judicial system. On one hand, filmmakers are citing creative freedom, while on the other hand, religious organizations and human rights activists argue that such films can undermine religious tolerance.

Legal experts believe that it is extremely important for the courts to maintain a balance in such cases, so that both freedom of expression and religious harmony, as enshrined in the Constitution, can be protected.

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